US, Iran Weigh Latest Mediator Proposals amid Limited Airstrikes
Iran and the US are examining the most recent suggestions from intermediaries aimed at closing their gaps and preventing another cycle of extensive conflict, as stated by a diplomat informed about the situation.
Qatari mediators traveled to Tehran for further discussions with Iranian officials and returned later that day, according to a diplomat who preferred to remain unnamed due to the sensitive nature of the topic. The diplomat stated that the discussions in Tehran were encouraging.
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the speaker of Iran's parliament and a key negotiator with the US, stated that his nation had “provided a firm and logical reply to the American side,” as per a report by Iran’s Fars news agency. “The responsibility now lies with America to avert a conflict,” he stated, emphasizing that Iran is prepared to respond vigorously to any US-Israeli assaults.
Recent diplomatic initiatives come after weeks of increased tensions, as Iran has intensified attacks on vessels near the Strait of Hormuz, while US President Donald Trump indicated he might initiate a fresh bombing operation against the Islamic Republic following Tuesday’s midterm elections, where his Republican party is anticipated to lose numerous seats in Congress to Democrats.
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In recent weeks, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized the importance of regime change in Iran. Axios reported on Sunday that he is urging Trump to attack Iran immediately after the vote.
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According to multiple American media sources, the US overnight attacked locations on the Iranian island of Qeshm within the strait.
These were restricted military operations, aimed at ensuring the safe passage of ships through the waterway, and, at least in one case, were a reaction to Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps shooting at an American aircraft, according to the Wall Street Journal, which referenced anonymous US officials.
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Although oil prices have surged in the last month due to escalating tensions — negatively impacting Trump's political image among Americans — they fell nearly 10% on Monday as indications emerged that the White House is open to extending the timeline for a diplomatic solution.