Daily brief
President Donald Trump says the US and Iran have made 'great progress' toward a deal to end the war, warning that if Iran rejects a new proposal, 'bombing starts.' Iran says it is reviewing the proposal, but a state-linked outlet reports some terms are unacceptable. Trump has paused the naval operation 'Project Freedom' near the Strait of Hormuz as part of the push for a deal. Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested the war is effectively over.
China’s top envoy met with Iran’s foreign minister in Beijing as Trump paused the US effort in the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran stated it will only accept a fair and comprehensive deal, while a senior Iranian MP dismissed the reported proposal as an 'American wish list.'
Qatari Prime Minister said there is a high chance the US and Iran will reach a deal, while an Israeli official said Israel was preparing for escalation and did not know Trump was close to a deal.
Iran attacked the UAE as a 'Trojan horse' for the US and Israel, and Saudi and Iranian foreign ministers discussed regional developments in a phone call.