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POLITICO Politics1 min read
Iran war: What is happening on day 53 of the US-Israel conflict?
TL;DR
Diplomatic efforts to end the US-Israel conflict with Iran are stalled, as Tehran refuses to negotiate under threats. A ceasefire is set to expire soon, while US President Trump insists on maintaining the blockade of Iranian ports.
Key points
- Diplomatic efforts to end the US-Israel conflict are uncertain
- Tehran refuses to negotiate under threats
- Trump insists on maintaining the blockade of Iranian ports
- A two-week ceasefire is set to expire
- Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon continue despite a ceasefire
Diplomatic efforts to end the US-Israel war on Iran remain uncertain, with Tehran refusing to negotiate under what it calls the “shadow of threats”.
United States President Donald Trump has said the blockade of Iranian ports will remain until a deal is reached, but Tehran wants it lifted before the talks. A two-week ceasefire expires on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Washington is also preparing for talks between Israel and Lebanon on Thursday, even as Israeli forces continue with their strikes in southern Lebanon. At least six people were wounded and homes destroyed in the attacks despite a 10-day ceasefire.
Here is what we know:
In Iran:
- Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Iran is “ready to show new cards on the battlefield” if clashes with the US resume after the ceasefire ends.
- Iran reopened Imam Khomeini and Mehrabad airports after weeks of war-related closures, aviation authorities said.
- The US wants Iran to halt its nuclear programme and hand over enriched uranium, a demand Tehran rejects. Iran says its nuclear programme is for research purposes and that it does not intend to make an atomic bomb.
- Iran has sought the release of its frozen assets and compensation for damage caused by US and Israeli strikes.
- Academic Zohreh Kharazmi said Tehran believes it holds the upper hand and will not negotiate “under the shadow of threats”, arguing Trump is “really in need of the negotiations”, though Iran would prefer to avoid renewed fighting.
War diplomacy:
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The Department of State will hold new talks on Thursday following a fragile ceasefire, a US official told the AFP news agency.
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A US team is expected to travel to Pakistan “soon” for further negotiations, though Iran has not confirmed participation.
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French President Emmanuel Macron called the US and Iranian blockades of the Strait of Hormuz “a mistake on both sides”.
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Russia called for the US-Iran ceasefire to be extended beyond its expiry on Wednesday.
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China, the main buyer of Iranian oil, expressed “concern” over the US seizure of the Iranian-flagged vessel near the Strait of Hormuz over the weekend and urged all parties to resume peace talks.
In the Gulf:
- UAE arrests Iran-linked group: Authorities said they detained suspects accused of plotting attacks and channelling funds to foreign groups.
Q&A
What is the current status of the US-Israel conflict with Iran?
The conflict remains unresolved, with Tehran rejecting negotiations under threats and a ceasefire about to expire.
Why is Tehran refusing to negotiate with the US and Israel?
Tehran claims it will not negotiate under the 'shadow of threats' from the US and insists on lifting the blockade before talks.
What are the consequences of the ongoing blockade of Iranian ports?
The blockade, maintained by the US, is a significant point of contention and is hindering diplomatic negotiations with Iran.
What is happening in southern Lebanon amid the US-Israel conflict?
Israeli forces continue strikes in southern Lebanon, resulting in casualties and destruction, despite a recent ceasefire.
