Good morning Middle East Eye readers,
Hopes for a breakthrough in US-Iran negotiations remain high as Donald Trump says most elements of a deal have been negotiated, but has instructed his team not to rush, insisting Washington has time to secure the right outcome.
Iran says progress has been made but mistrust remains, while reports suggest an emerging framework could reopen the Strait of Hormuz and extend the ceasefire. Meanwhile, fighting continues in Lebanon despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.
US officials say roughly 95% of the agreement framework has been completed, with negotiations now focused on final wording
Reuters reports Iran has agreed in principle to reopen the Strait of Hormuz under the emerging deal framework
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio says a “solid” proposal remains on the table and Trump will not accept a bad deal
Brent crude falls below $100 a barrel as markets increasingly expect a diplomatic breakthrough
Tankers bound for Pakistan and China continue exiting the Strait of Hormuz as shipping conditions improve
Israeli military orders evacuations in 10 villages in southern Lebanon ahead of planned strikes
Hezbollah reports a new wave of operations against Israeli troops in southern Lebanon, while Israeli strikes kill two people and wound 10 others
Lebanese President renews calls for a full Israeli withdrawal from Lebanese territory
US lawmakers from both parties continue questioning aspects of Trump’s approach to the emerging Iran agreement
Middle East Eye ISSN 2634-2456