Trump Adds New Normalization Demands as U.S. Strikes Iranian Targets Amid Doha Talks

Tensions between Washington and Tehran intensified over the last 24 hours as U.S. Central Command launched strikes against missile sites and naval vessels attempting to lay mines in southern Iran. The military action coincides with a fragile round of diplomatic talks in Doha, where Iranian negotiators continue to meet despite the active hostilities. U.S. officials indicate that any final agreement remains precarious, as the approval of Iran’s Supreme Leader is considered a critical gating factor that could take several days to secure. President Donald Trump has introduced a significant new condition for a potential settlement, publicly stating that Saudi Arabia and five other Muslim-majority nations should join the Abraham Accords as part of a comprehensive regional peace arrangement. This new diplomatic demand adds a layer of complexity to ongoing discussions regarding Iran's nuclear program and regional posture. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the current offer as a 'solid proposal' but emphasized that the administration is prepared to pursue alternative strategies should the Doha talks collapse. The tentative framework currently under discussion reportedly requires Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and eventually dispose of its enriched uranium stockpile in exchange for phased sanctions relief. While nuclear technicalities are slated for a later stage of negotiations, President Trump has remained firm that Iran must destroy, relocate, or turn over its enriched materials. These developments occur against the backdrop of escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, highlighting the interconnected nature of the U.S.-Iran file and broader regional stability.