May
01.05.2025
Thursday

Day of Postponed Rome Talks

The fourth round of Iran-US nuclear talks scheduled for Saturday in Rome was postponed, with Oman's Foreign Ministry citing logistical reasons. The postponement occurred amid Iranian warnings about American "provocative positions" and concerns over Israeli interference in the negotiation process. Foreign Minister Araghchi emphasized Iran remains determined to achieve a "fair and balanced agreement."

Meanwhile, university entrance exams began nationwide with about 406,000 candidates participating. The IRGC announced the arrest of 150 terrorists in Sistan-Baluchistan province, while authorities ordered immediate evacuation of dangerous goods terminal at Rajaei Port, continuing crisis management following the recent explosion.

In US politics, Trump dismissed his national security advisor Mike Waltz and made statements threatening sanctions against countries purchasing Iranian oil, highlighting continued tensions despite ongoing diplomatic engagement. France noted there is no military solution to Iran's nuclear program.
The dollar's exchange rate dropped by 20,000 toman, signaling positive economic developments amid external pressure. Trump threatened sanctions against any country purchasing Iranian oil, causing crude prices to rise. Foreign Minister Araghchi responded firmly, stating pressure would not force Iran to change its policies while emphasizing Iran's right to uranium enrichment.

The postponement of nuclear negotiations, previously attributed to logistics, was officially confirmed as Oman's proposal. Iran's Foreign Ministry rejected approaches based on increased sanctions while criticizing France's "destructive" role in nuclear talks.

The Shahid Rajaei Port explosion investigation continued with Friday prayer leader Ayatollah Sedighi acknowledging "negligence." Reconstruction of the customs building has begun.

In sports, Tractor secured its first-ever Iranian Premier League championship with a decisive 4-0 victory against Shams Azar, claiming the title with two weeks remaining in the season.
Foreign Minister Araghchi dominated morning coverage with forceful claims of Iran's right to a complete nuclear fuel cycle under NPT, responding to US "threats." This followed postponed US-Iran talks that reportedly caused the rial's value to drop and Tehran's stock exchange to decline. Economic concerns persisted with discussions of "seven imbalances" facing Iran's economy and IMF consultations returning to Iran.

By afternoon, explosion investigations at Shahid Rajaei Port continued, with officials denying storage of dangerous explosives while families of missing persons gathered. A committee was formed to handle insurance claims related to the incident.

The evening brought natural disruptions as thunderstorms encircled Tehran before a 4.0 magnitude earthquake struck the Tehran-Alborz border, prompting three emergency teams to deploy to the area. Reports also emerged of Israeli preparations for expanded operations in Gaza.
Seven Iranians were arrested in two British anti-terrorism operations, with reports indicating they targeted "a specific location." The news emerged as Houthi forces launched a missile strike against Ben Gurion Airport, hitting within the main terminal area and causing several airlines to suspend flights. Netanyahu vowed retaliation against both the Houthis and their "Iranian masters."

Supreme Leader Khamenei met with Hajj officials, describing the pilgrimage as "100% political" and emphasizing that "no benefit for the Islamic nation is higher than unity." He also offered condolences for Shahid Rajaei Port victims, with updated reports reducing the death toll from 70 to 57.

The Iranian Defense Minister warned that any attack against Iran would receive a powerful response, while officials denied rumors about changes in IRGC leadership. A new ballistic missile, "Qasem Basir," was unveiled amid the heightened tensions.
Morning coverage centered on Iran rejecting Netanyahu's accusations linking Tehran to the Houthi missile strike on Ben Gurion Airport. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Baghaei maintained Houthis act independently while awaiting Oman's input on future US talks. Atomic Energy chief Eslami described uranium enrichment as "a symbol of national independence."

By midday, British police continued interrogating seven Iranians arrested for terrorism charges, with no official Iranian response. Reports emerged of 11 people missing in the Shahid Rajaei port explosion, with two arrests made and a small fire quickly contained.

The evening was dominated by Israel's "extensive" airstrikes against Houthi positions in Yemen's Hodeidah port, conducted with US coordination. Iranian officials warned that any aggression against Iran would have consequences for the US and Israel, while Araghchi expressed readiness for political dialogue with the European Union despite the escalation.
Morning news focused on Israel's airstrikes against Houthi positions in Yemen, with Iran condemning the "Zionist aggression." Reports highlighted Yemen's severe water crisis with 44 dams in critical condition. By midday, Putin and Pezeshkian held talks, with Russia offering to facilitate Iran-US negotiations while Trump claimed a Yemen ceasefire agreement through Omani mediation. CNN reported this ceasefire aims to ease US-Iran talks.

The evening was dominated by India's missile strikes against Pakistan, with Islamabad promising a "comprehensive response." Domestic concerns included illegal foreign residents facing deportation "without leniency" and housing loan policies for low-income citizens. Foreign Minister Araghchi demanded Britain respect Iranian citizens' rights, likely responding to recent terrorism-related arrests there. Throughout the day, reports indicated Sanaa International Airport was "destroyed" in Israeli strikes that killed three people.
Pakistan reported 31 dead from Indian airstrikes as tensions between the nuclear powers escalated dramatically. Iran expressed "serious concern," with Araghchi visiting New Delhi urging restraint from both sides. Trump's alleged attempt to rename the Persian Gulf triggered strong reactions from Tehran, with Iranian UN representatives stating "realities cannot be changed by White House decisions." By evening, Trump backtracked, saying he didn't "want to upset anyone."

Supreme Leader Khamenei's message to Qom Seminary's centennial dominated domestic coverage, emphasizing the institution's role in establishing a "new Islamic civilization." President Pezeshkian ordered "serious and immediate" action against illegal cryptocurrency miners amid electricity shortages.

Yemen's ceasefire situation received attention with Iran welcoming Oman's statement on halting US attacks, while Yemen reportedly launched new strikes against Ramon Airport and Jaffa, continuing the regional escalation despite diplomatic efforts.
Foreign Minister Araqchi continued diplomatic efforts in New Delhi, urging restraint from both India and Pakistan as their border conflict intensified with flight suspensions at four Pakistani airports. Iran categorically denied involvement in an alleged plot targeting Israel's London embassy, with Araqchi offering to cooperate with investigations after British police arrested several Iranian nationals.

President Pezeshkian toured the 29th International Oil Exhibition, where officials claimed ongoing high-level oil exports despite sanctions. Trump issued threats regarding Iran's nuclear program, stating Tehran must destroy centrifuges "gently or violently."

IRGC Commander Salami warned Israel and the US that Iran would "open the gates of hell" if attacked, coinciding with the unveiling of a new underground drone base by the IRGC Navy. The Persian Gulf naming controversy continued with Pezeshkian affirming it "will remain the Persian Gulf."

International focus shifted to the Vatican, where American Cardinal Robert Prevost was elected as Pope Leo XIV, becoming the first American pope in history.
Foreign Minister Araqchi confirmed the fourth round of indirect Iran-US negotiations will take place Sunday in Oman, with IAEA Director General Grossi holding telephone discussions ahead of the talks. The White House clarified Trump has not yet decided to rename the Persian Gulf, softening yesterday's controversy that prompted hardline newspaper Kayhan to demand negotiations be suspended until Trump apologizes. Meanwhile, Iran's Atomic Energy Organization reiterated that Iran isn't the only country enriching uranium without nuclear weapons.

India-Pakistan military tensions escalated further with India reporting attacks on military bases, which Pakistan denied. Iranian media highlighted the display of Iranian-made Shahed-136 drones at Russia's Victory Day parade in Moscow, showcasing Iran's growing military technology exports.

The IRGC Navy's underground drone base unveiling received significant coverage, presented as altering strategic equations in the Persian Gulf amid ongoing regional tensions.
Pakistan launched "Operation Solid Structure" against India in retaliation for missile strikes, targeting twenty areas. By early afternoon, US mediation succeeded in securing a ceasefire between the nuclear powers, with assistance from Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

Iran's Supreme Leader met thousands of workers, declaring them "the main capital" for achieving national economic goals while emphasizing workplace safety following the Bandar Rajaee incident. He criticized lifting import restrictions on products with domestic equivalents.

Foreign Minister Araqchi departed for Saudi Arabia ahead of Sunday's fourth round of indirect US-Iran nuclear talks in Oman. He firmly stated Iran would not relinquish its enrichment rights while denying nuclear weapons ambitions. Iran's Foreign Ministry denied Reuters' report about transferring Fateh-360 missile launchers to Russia.

Iranian media reported Tehran faces four days of expected storms as power outages continue causing disruptions across provinces.
The fourth round of Iran-US nuclear negotiations in Muscat, Oman dominated Iranian media. Early morning headlines showed FM Araqchi departing for talks after declaring uranium enrichment "non-negotiable" - a position reinforced throughout the day with statements that "the blood of our nuclear scientists" had been spilled for this capability.

The three-hour talks concluded by mid-afternoon, with both sides expressing cautious optimism. Araqchi characterized the negotiations as "more serious and direct" than previous rounds, noting positions had moved "slightly closer together." An unnamed American official described the talks as "encouraging" while emphasizing US demands remained unchanged.

Oman will announce the timing for a fifth round. President Pezeshkian reinforced Iran's position, stating "abandoning nuclear facilities is unacceptable" while affirming Iran seeks serious negotiations. Military chief Bagheri simultaneously declared Iran's armed forces "fully prepared for any situation."
The Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) announced its dissolution after 40 years of armed struggle, generating optimism about potential regional stability. Iranian newspapers presented this as ending "four decades of conflict and insecurity."

Hamas announced plans to release an Israeli-American hostage named Edan Alexander during Trump's Middle East visit, with Al-Hindi of Hamas stating permanent cessation of fighting is required for releasing all Israeli captives.

The nuclear talks narrative continued evolving, with Trump describing Iran as "reasonable" in negotiations while Foreign Minister Araghchi warned against misusing the snapback mechanism. IAEA Director Grossi made a significant statement that "nobody can destroy Iran's nuclear program."

COVID-19 resurgence reports appeared throughout the day, with health officials recommending mask usage in public spaces as virus circulation increases.

Economic coverage focused on children's books becoming unaffordable (567% price increase over five years) and plans to remove four zeros from the national currency this year.
Donald Trump's arrival in Saudi Arabia dominated Iran's media cycle, with coverage evolving from initial reports of his landing to signing a $142 billion arms deal by afternoon. Trump's ultimatum to Iran became the day's focal point: accept an "olive branch" for negotiations or face "maximum pressure." Iranian officials maintained defiant postures, with President Pezeshkian declaring Iran "will not retreat from principles" and IRGC commander Salami claiming America had "no way out of its self-created crisis."

Yemen reportedly launched hypersonic missiles at Ben Gurion airport during Trump's speech, continuing regional tensions. The PKK dissolution, first reported yesterday, received continued analysis as media explored its implications for Kurdish-Turkish relations.

Internal debates about internet filtering gained momentum, with Reform Movement figure Aref and government spokesperson expressing optimism about potential lifting of restrictions through cooperation between government branches.
Trump's Middle East tour featured a historic meeting with Syria's new leader Ahmad Shara - the first US-Syrian presidential meeting in 25 years. Trump praised Shara as "attractive and combative" while urging Syria to join peace agreements with Israel.

Iranian officials responded sharply to Trump's previous day's ultimatum. Foreign Minister Araghchi dismissed Trump's remarks as "pure deception with shifting threats," while Parliament Speaker Qalibaf claimed Trump "lives in delusion." President Pezeshkian noted "Trump doesn't know Iranians yet."

A significant domestic development emerged when the Expediency Council approved the Palermo bill after years of deliberation, potentially signaling Iran's readiness for broader international engagement. Former MP Motahari suggested this approval relates to ongoing nuclear negotiations.

Supreme Leader Khamenei praised relief workers as "manifestations of humanity" while condemning Israeli actions in Gaza as "atrocities" requiring universal resistance.
Trump, visiting Qatar, claimed Iran had "somehow agreed to our conditions" for a nuclear deal, suggesting negotiations were near completion. This followed Shamkhani's NBC interview stating Iran would eliminate nuclear stockpiles if sanctions were immediately lifted. Iranian officials presented contradictory responses - Araghchi denied receiving any written proposal, directly contradicting Axios reports of a formal American offer.

President Pezeshkian maintained a defiant tone throughout his Kermanshah visit, saying he "doesn't have time to listen to Trump" while emphasizing belief in negotiation without yielding to threats. He inaugurated projects worth 7 trillion tomans in the province.

IRGC Commander Salami announced an upcoming "great defensive achievement" while claiming Iran is "stronger than ever." Meanwhile, domestic concerns included COVID-19's reappearance after months of quiet, unauthorized mobile internet tariff increases, and two-week power cuts to large industries causing significant economic damage.
The nuclear negotiations narrative fractured completely along US-Iran lines. Trump repeatedly claimed he had presented a formal proposal to Iran requiring quick action, while Foreign Minister Araghchi explicitly denied receiving any written proposal and declared uranium enrichment an uncompromisable "red line." This direct contradiction dominated coverage.

President Pezeshkian continued his public activities, visiting the Tehran Book Fair where he emphasized citizens should have freedom to choose their reading materials, and sought expert advice on water scarcity challenges.

The Expediency Council's conditional approval of Iran joining the Palermo Convention continued receiving attention as a significant development potentially related to sanctions relief.

In security news, authorities announced the arrest of 610 economic suspects operating in cyberspace, while US Secretary of State Rubio linked final peace decisions directly to Supreme Leader Khamenei's choices between "peace and prosperity" or a "destructive path."
The contradiction between Iranian and American narratives intensified as Supreme Leader Khamenei met with teachers, dismissing Trump's peace claims as "lies" and declaring the Zionist regime "must be uprooted" from the region. This followed two days of conflicting statements, with Trump claiming Iran had received a written nuclear proposal while Foreign Minister Araghchi continued denying this.

Khamenei praised President Pezeshkian's focus on education, asserting that "investment in education yields multiple returns" and is not an expense. He also instructed that US embassy documents be included in school textbooks.

International complications emerged as three Iranian nationals in Britain were charged with security crimes, allegedly targeting Iran International journalists. BBC investigations claimed Iran uses criminal gangs for foreign assassinations.

Domestically, news outlets reported rising Omicron cases, power cuts affecting industries, and disputes over internet costs with claims that Irancell has abandoned 5G development.
The Tehran Dialogue Forum opened with President Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Araghchi doubling down on Iran's nuclear position, firmly rejecting US envoy Witkaf's demand for zero enrichment. "Enrichment will continue whether an agreement is reached or not," Araghchi declared, calling American expectations "unrealistic." This direct confrontation follows days of contradictory claims about nuclear talks.

Yemen's reported missile strikes on Israel's Ben Gurion Airport received substantial coverage, presented as part of the "resistance axis" against Israel's Gaza operations. Media highlighted this as occurring shortly after Supreme Leader Khamenei's speech from the previous day.

Reports initially claimed Hamas leader Sinwar's brothers were killed in Israeli operations, but later indicated some survived.

By afternoon, economic news emerged with the coin price retreating to 70 million tomans, while officials announced that bread pricing authority would be transferred to provincial governors.
Iranian officials maintained their firm stance on uranium enrichment rights amid talks with the US. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Baqaei declared "enrichment is not a fantasy that we can stop," while Deputy Takht-Ravanchi warned negotiations would fail if the US insists on zero enrichment - directly rejecting US envoy Witkoff's recent position.

Iran strongly rejected the Arab League's claims regarding the three Persian Gulf islands, with multiple agencies carrying the diplomatic response throughout the day.

Israel announced it would permit "basic food" into Gaza after a ten-week blockade, amid UN famine warnings. Meanwhile, Yemen's Houthi forces claimed they had begun a naval blockade of Israel's Haifa port.

Domestically, President Pezeshkian pushed to accelerate subsidy redistribution, instructing officials to remove subsidies from the three highest income deciles and redirect them to the poorest three groups. Iranian military officials also claimed a five-fold increase in air defense capabilities.
20.05.2025
Tuesday

Khamenei Renounces Nuclear Talks

The first anniversary commemoration of President Raisi's helicopter crash death became a platform for Supreme Leader Khamenei to make significant policy declarations. Speaking at the morning ceremony, Khamenei expressed pessimism about ongoing indirect nuclear negotiations with the US, stating "we don't think negotiations will yield results" and firmly rejected American limitations on uranium enrichment, asserting Iran "doesn't wait for anyone's permission."

These statements represent a marked escalation from previous days when Iranian officials maintained they would continue enrichment regardless of agreements. US Secretary of State Rubio responded that America wants Iran to have a civilian nuclear program without enrichment capabilities, warning that "alternatives to negotiations would be much worse."

The Yemeni blockade of Israel's Haifa port received coverage throughout the day, presented as part of the "resistance axis" against Israel. Five UN aid trucks entered Gaza after an 11-week blockade, described as "a drop in the ocean."
After days of hardline rhetoric on uranium enrichment, including Supreme Leader Khamenei's pessimistic statements yesterday, Iran confirmed it would participate in a fifth round of nuclear talks with the US in Rome on Friday. The announcement came as a surprise, with Foreign Minister Araqchi spending the morning expressing doubt about Iran's participation while simultaneously reaffirming that enrichment is a "fundamental principle" that cannot be negotiated.

US Secretary of State Rubio maintained that Iran's nuclear program must operate "without enrichment," while warning that alternatives to diplomacy would be "much worse." CNN reported Israel is preparing attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities if negotiations fail.

Officials held memorial ceremonies for President Raisi and others killed in last year's helicopter crash, with President Pezeshkian emphasizing how their "simple lifestyle" refutes "enemies' accusations." Parliament also approved Thursday closures and ratified Iran's accession to the Palermo Convention.
The morning began with extensive coverage of two Israeli embassy staff murdered in Washington DC, with the shooter reportedly shouting "Free Palestine" upon arrest. By midday, Foreign Minister Araghchi delivered Iran's most significant statement, warning the US would bear legal responsibility for any Israeli strike against Iranian nuclear facilities. This escalation follows yesterday's confirmation of Friday nuclear talks in Rome.

Araghchi emphasized enrichment remains "a principle that will not be suspended," directly countering US demands. While Trump reportedly believes negotiations are "on the right track," Araghchi declared "if America's goal is zero enrichment, there will be no agreement." The military unveiled three new drone systems while maintaining "high readiness."

Economic concerns surfaced regarding power outages affecting factories and construction, while officials promoted tourism as a counter to "Iranophobia."
The fifth round of Iran-US nuclear talks began in Rome with uranium enrichment remaining the central sticking point. Iranian negotiators maintained their position that halting enrichment would mean "stopping negotiations," consistent with Khamenei's statements earlier this week.

By midday, US negotiator Witkoff left the venue early due to "flight schedule," not negotiation breakdown, according to Iranian spokesman Baghaei. Talks continued for three hours in what Araghchi described as "one of the most professional rounds of negotiations."

After talks concluded, both sides characterized the discussions as productive. Araghchi stated that "new proposals and solutions were presented that could be path-breaking" and negotiations are "on a reasonable path." A senior Trump administration official called the talks "constructive," while Omani mediators noted "not-so-certain progress." Both delegations returned to their capitals with proposals for further expert analysis, with the timing of the next round yet to be announced.
The Revolutionary Guards issued stern warnings of retaliation "beyond imagination" against potential attacks on nuclear facilities, with both Army and IRGC releasing separate statements. These threats emerged as diplomats characterized the fifth round of Rome nuclear talks as "professional" despite continuing disagreement over uranium enrichment. Foreign Minister Araghchi claimed new "path-breaking" proposals were presented, though Radio Farda reported increased "tension and distrust" following the negotiations.

Energy transition dominated domestic coverage with President Pezeshkian announcing plans to replace gas with electricity for heating and a $1.5 billion allocation for solar power equipment. Officials reported 300 trillion tomans in damages from last year's power outages.

Late evening news focused on Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi winning the Palme d'Or at Cannes, with multiple outlets reporting his call to "set aside differences and work for Iran's freedom."
Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi's Palme d'Or win at Cannes dominated news coverage, evolving from celebrations to diplomatic tension when Iran summoned the French chargé d'affaires after France's Foreign Minister characterized the award as resistance against the regime. Panahi had called for Iranians to "set aside differences" for Iran's freedom.

Foreign Minister Araghchi maintained his firm stance on nuclear negotiations, warning of a "harsh response" if sanctions snapback mechanisms were activated, while acknowledging Iran would welcome a regional uranium enrichment center provided domestic enrichment continues. These statements follow the previous day's "professional" talks in Rome.

Parliamentary tensions surfaced with Speaker Qalibaf revealing the Supreme National Security Council had ordered delaying implementation of the controversial hijab law. Economic developments included offering 200 investment opportunities worth $135 billion in the oil industry and farmers reporting payment delays for wheat deliveries.
Trump's positive assessment of the fifth round of nuclear negotiations dominated morning headlines, describing them as "very good" with potential news coming soon. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Baghaei countered by declaring uranium enrichment an "absolute red line" that Iran won't compromise on, explicitly denying interim deal possibilities.

President Pezeshkian reinforced this stance throughout the day, emphasizing Iran's self-reliance with claims that internal consensus with "our people and elites" would eliminate need for foreign agreements, adding Iran has "hundreds of ways" to counter sanctions.

By afternoon, Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif's visit took center stage, meeting with both Pezeshkian and Supreme Leader Khamenei. Their discussions emphasized border security cooperation and mutual concern over Gaza, with Sharif expressing support for Iran's right to nuclear energy.

Meanwhile, Gaza coverage continued with reports of Israeli forces burning bodies of displaced Palestinians at Al-Jargawi school, and Reuters reporting Hamas had accepted the latest ceasefire proposal.
Judge Ehsan Bagheri's assassination in Shiraz dominated morning headlines, with judicial authorities condemning the attack by unknown assailants who escaped after killing the criminal court judge on his way to work. This violence occurred as Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf secured his sixth term as Parliament Speaker with 219 votes, significantly weakening the hardline Paydari faction.

By midday, President Pezeshkian's diplomatic mission to Oman took center stage, with reports emphasizing his gratitude for Oman's role as mediator in indirect U.S.-Iran negotiations. This visit follows yesterday's hardline statements about enrichment being a "red line" in nuclear talks. The two countries signed 18 cooperation documents amid ongoing nuclear discussions.

Other developments included Iran's Atomic Energy Organization announcing a 20,000 megawatt nuclear power project and diplomatic tension with Saudi Arabia over the detention of Iranian national Gholamreza Ghassemian during Hajj for inflammatory comments.
The execution of Pedram Madani for alleged espionage for Israel dominated early morning coverage, with state media reporting the hanging occurred at Qezel-Hesar prison. This development came as nuclear negotiations continued to generate headlines, with Foreign Minister Araghchi responding sharply to Britain's "zero enrichment" position and officials reaffirming that enrichment remains a "red line."

President Pezeshkian's Oman visit concluded with reports of "good agreements" and appreciation for Muscat's mediation role in U.S.-Iran talks. By afternoon, Trump's admission that he had warned Netanyahu against attacking Iran while nuclear negotiations are ongoing dominated coverage across multiple outlets.

Supreme Leader Khamenei's meeting with provincial governors provided the day's domestic focus, urging officials to listen to citizens' concerns and fight corruption while avoiding personal business ventures. First Vice President Aref separately warned that personal statements by certain individuals could damage Iran's improving regional relations.
Foreign Minister Araqchi dismantled speculation about imminent nuclear negotiations with Washington, declaring Iran was not approaching any near-term agreement. This contradicted yesterday's optimism and CNN reports suggesting the two countries were "very close to agreement."

The diplomatic correction came amid intensified regional outreach. Araqchi emphasized Saudi Arabia's "very important place" in Iran's neighborly policy, while hardline cleric Gholamreza Ghassemian returned from Saudi detention. First Vice President Aref traveled to Tajikistan, signing four cooperation agreements.

President Pezeshkian promised "good news" in healthcare, economic balance, and foreign relations during his Oman visit, while reaffirming Iran holds "no place for nuclear weapons" in its doctrine. Meanwhile, truck drivers entered their eighth day of strikes despite security pressures, and reports emerged of three missing Indians in Tehran.
Austrian intelligence claims about Iran's nuclear weapons development sparked a diplomatic confrontation, with Tehran summoning Austria's chargé d'affaires and denouncing the report as "provocative lies." This escalation occurred as Western countries prepared new IAEA resolutions against Iran.

President Pezeshkian reiterated that nuclear weapons have no place in Islamic doctrine, while reports emerged of Saudi Arabia warning Iran to take Trump's negotiations seriously or face military consequences. Iran denied receiving such warnings.

The nuclear diplomacy narrative shifted throughout the day, with Trump claiming proximity to agreement and stating Iran doesn't want to be attacked. By evening, multiple outlets reported Western preparation of anti-Iran IAEA resolutions, contradicting earlier optimism about sixth-round talks representing "compatibility" between Tehran and Washington.

Hamas rejected the latest U.S. Gaza ceasefire proposal, while First Vice President Aref returned from Tajikistan promising expanded bilateral relations. Two Iranian border guards died from an old landmine in Marivan.
Iranian state media reported Foreign Minister Araqchi received "key elements" of America's nuclear proposal through Oman's foreign minister, promising a response based on "national principles and interests." This diplomatic development occurred as Iran dismissed IAEA warnings about increased uranium enrichment near weapons-grade levels as "baseless claims" designed to create atmosphere against Tehran.

The nuclear discussions unfolded against backdrop of Israel blocking Arab foreign ministers from meeting Palestinian Authority President Abbas in Ramallah, preventing diplomats from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, Qatar, Turkey and UAE from entering the occupied West Bank.

Earlier, Araqchi had hardened Iran's position, declaring Western demands for zero enrichment constitute "imposing dominance" and stating Iranians would not accept halting enrichment. A nationwide truck drivers' strike expanded to 152 cities with increased arrests, while President Pezeshkian proposed transferring loss-making state companies to universities to generate revenue.
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