Regional mediators and U.S. officials said Iran and the U.S. remain far apart in
negotiations to end the conflict, despite President Donald Trump pausing planned
strikes on Iran. Mediators said Tehran continues to demand an end to
hostilities, financial relief, war reparations and a role overseeing the Strait
of Hormuz, while rejecting U.S. demands to close or suspend its nuclear program
long term. Trump later warned the U.S. “may have to give them another big hit.”
Vice President JD Vance said Iran appears willing to negotiate but cautioned no
deal is certain until signed. Officials said the U.S. and Israel had prepared
additional strikes that could still occur within days. Iran has continued
attacks across the Gulf region, while the UAE said drones launched from Iraq
struck near the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant without causing radiation leaks.
