rki.news | sources AFP Tehran
The United States is awaiting Iran’s response to its proposed deal aimed at ending the Middle East conflict and reopening a key Gulf shipping lane.
Asian markets rose and oil prices fell after US President Donald Trump said an agreement could be near following positive talks. Iran said it would pass its position to mediator Pakistan.
Any extension of a ceasefire between the United States and Iran could ease tensions in Lebanon, where a fragile truce with Israel was strained after a strike in southern Beirut killed a Hezbollah commander.
The war, launched by the United States and Israel in late February, has seen Iran respond with attacks across the region and disrupt shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a key energy route.
Trump briefly authorized a naval operation to secure shipping and reopen the strait, but it was suspended within hours amid progress in Pakistan-mediated talks backed by Gulf states.
In Iran, concerns are growing over worsening conditions as the conflict continues.
“The economic situation got worse, and this government has become even more brutal,” said Ali, 49, speaking from Tonekabon via Paris, using only his first name for safety.
“We’ve had very good talks over the last 24 hours,” Trump said, adding a deal is possible but warning of renewed strikes if Iran rejects US terms.