WEB DESK: US President Donald Trump said talks with Iran are progressing well, emphasizing Iran cannot have nuclear weapons. The focus is on denuclearization. Trump mentioned a successful strike against Iran and pointed to rising stock markets as a sign of economic strength while discussing compensation for Americans.
Further development is expected as US-Iran talks continue in Qatar, aiming for a peace agreement, resumed shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, and advancing a ceasefire agreement reached last month. Talks involve a 14-point interim agreement from June that paused conflict from US-Israeli strikes in February, providing 60 days for peace negotiations.
Jared Kushner and special envoy Steve Witkoff met with Qatar’s Prime Minister to support talks starting Tuesday night, focusing on managing the Strait of Hormuz and releasing $6 billion in frozen Iranian assets. The US seeks uninterrupted shipping flow guarantees, while Iran wants its control over the strait recognized.
Shipping traffic through the strait, crucial for global oil trade, is partially resumed with ongoing uncertainties. An Iranian report indicated a foreign container ship ran aground outside designated lanes.
The interim agreement follows military exchanges between the US and Iran. Oil prices fell over 1% as negotiations continue. Efforts also aim to ease tensions in Lebanon involving US-backed talks to end hostilities with Hezbollah.
The negotiations come amid growing domestic pressure in the US and Iran to avoid escalating the conflict. President Trump aims to minimize economic fallout before US midterm elections, while Iran faces public dissatisfaction over its economy.
