Efforts to resolve the ongoing Iran conflict hit a major roadblock this week, with diplomatic talks deadlocked and tensions flaring across the Middle East. 🌍🔥
On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Iran's latest proposal to end the two-month war. Tehran's offer reportedly set aside discussions on its nuclear program until after the conflict concludes, but Trump insists on addressing nuclear issues from the outset. In a Truth Social post, Trump claimed, without evidence, that Iran had informed the US it was in a "state of collapse."
Meanwhile, Israel announced it had destroyed a "massive Hezbollah terrorist tunnel" in Lebanon, leading to casualties. The Lebanese health ministry said Israeli strikes killed eight people, including civil defence rescuers, despite an ongoing ceasefire.
The Iranian army spokesman, Brigadier-General Mohammad Akraminia, stated that the country's air force is playing a decisive role in the war, pledging defiance against external pressures.
On Wednesday, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to face tough questions from lawmakers during his first testimony to Congress since the conflict began.
The economic fallout continues as oil prices jumped on reports of the stalled talks and concerns over disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. In a surprising move, the United Arab Emirates announced it will withdraw from OPEC and OPEC+ to focus on national interests.
Other developments include US troops boarding and searching the M/V Blue Star III on suspicion of violating the blockade, sanctions imposed on entities linked to Iran's shadow banking, and drones reportedly flying over Baghdad's Green Zone.
Adding to the diplomatic complexity, the UK's ambassador to the US suggested that Israel might be the only country with a "special relationship" with the United States.
As talks remain at an impasse, the situation underscores the volatile nature of the conflict and its wide-reaching impacts on regional stability and global markets.
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Talks deadlock continues as Iran air force chief pledges defiance
cgtn.com
