Trump Refutes Reports of Peace Talk Collapse; Iran Weighs Interim Deal

President Donald Trump has publicly rejected claims that diplomatic channels between Washington and Tehran have collapsed, asserting that the two nations have been in contact daily, including as recently as today. This diplomatic push occurs as Iranian officials confirm they are studying an interim agreement aimed at halting hostilities. The proposed deal reportedly trades regional de-escalation and nuclear concessions for significant economic relief, including access to oil revenues and export waivers. Secretary of State Marco Rubio informed lawmakers that negotiations have expanded to include aspects of Iran’s nuclear program that Tehran had previously refused to discuss. Despite this movement, Iranian state media suggests a 'stern' and cautious approach to the draft text, citing historical mistrust of U.S. commitments. The negotiations are taking place against a backdrop of continued instability, with the Strait of Hormuz remaining largely closed to shipping and active fighting persisting between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon. The Trump administration appears to be using these back-channels to address multiple fronts simultaneously, linking a potential nuclear breakthrough to a broader regional ceasefire. For Iran, the primary motivation remains the restoration of port access and the unfreezing of energy-related assets, though a final response to the U.S. proposal has yet to be issued.