Trump also renewed his criticism of the nuclear agreement negotiated under former President Barack Obama, describing it as "a road to a nuclear weapon."

He credited recent US military strikes, including B-2 bomber missions targeting what he described as Iranian nuclear infrastructure, with preventing Tehran from developing a nuclear weapon.

"If that didn't happen, they would have had a nuclear weapon and there would be no Israel," Trump said, referring to the strikes. The US president further claimed that his administration's actions had prevented a wider regional catastrophe.

"If I wasn't here, if I wasn't president, there would be no Israel and there probably would be no Middle East ," he said, adding that he believed Iran would have used a nuclear weapon if it had obtained one.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran chose the path of diplomacy and dialogue, and negotiations were underway to settle differences. The response to diplomacy came not through negotiation, but through a military attack," he said.

He argued that such actions weakened confidence in diplomacy and the peaceful resolution of disputes.

"Such behaviour undermines confidence in diplomacy, calls into question the credibility of mechanisms for the peaceful settlement of disputes, and carries a dangerous message for the future of international relations," Araghchi said.

The Iranian foreign minister also accused the United States and Israel of violating international law, citing what he described as breaches of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and attacks on civilian infrastructure.

Araghchi reaffirmed Iran's commitment to cooperation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, saying Tehran was ready to make its transport, energy and regional trade capabilities available to fellow member states.

His remarks came after a 13th consecutive night of US strikes on Iran, while Tehran continued targeting American military assets across the region.

Speaking to reporters in Washington, Trump said the United States was maintaining pressure on Tehran and insisted Iran could not be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon.

"We're doing very well against the Islamic Republic of Iran. We're doing extremely well. They would like to do something, but I say they're not ready yet. They need more of the same. They're not ready yet. They got some evil intentions. We cannot let them have a nuclear weapon," he said.

Earlier, Trump told one media outlet he was considering a "massive attack" that would be "bigger than ever before" and said he was "close to making a decision."

A Pakistan-brokered Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the United States and Iran in June to halt the war that began on February 28.

Despite the agreement, fighting has resumed, with Washington carrying out repeated strikes on Iranian targets while Tehran has launched attacks on US assets across the region.

Speaking on Sunday, Trump said the latest military action was intended to honour US troops killed during recent attacks in the Middle East .

"We control the strait [of Hormuz]. They don't control anything. So we'll see what happens. But we hit them very hard again tonight, and we did that in honour of the probably three - it's probably three as opposed to two - great patriots," he said.

Trump's remarks came as tensions between Washington and Tehran continued to escalate.

US Central Command said it launched a "new wave" of strikes for the ninth consecutive night.

Tehran said it responded with what it described as a "surprise attack" in Syria and Jordan.

The latest exchange followed attacks that left US service members dead over the past two days.

On Saturday, one US service member was confirmed killed in an attack in Iraq, while two were reported dead on Friday following a strike on a base in Jordan.

"The Great Satan has once again unveiled its true, unmasked face, so that this dark experience of crime and bad faith serves as yet another strong document of America's mendacity, irrationality, unreliability and vileness," he said.

Khamenei also warned the United States against what he described as "warmongering," saying it would only bring "heavier costs and greater disgrace" to Washington.

"The dear nation of Iran and the Resistance Front have unforgettable lessons for [the US], lessons of which the valor of Islamic fighters and the zeal of the brave people along the southern front have shown examples in recent days," he said.

He also called for unity within Iran, urging the public to avoid political disputes and divisions.

Iran and the United States signed a memorandum of understanding on June 17, opening a 60-day period for negotiations toward a final agreement.

Footage showed medics evacuating patients from the hospital as the blasts sent shockwaves through the facility.

"Four explosions in a row occurred, so much so that the blast wave spread throughout, and the patients, even those downstairs, were truly affected by a very heavy wave," one nurse said, adding that breathing equipment for some patients had been shaken.

"It was so close that we thought perhaps the entire hospital was hit. Really, the entire staff, patients, and companions, just rushed out," he continued.

The nurse described how patients in different conditions were quickly evacuated from the building.

"The patients were in different conditions, in the paediatric ward, the baby was in the mother's arms... One was taken in a wheelchair, the other was taken out with help, everyone was evacuated."

The United States had not commented on the reported strikes at the time of publication.

Early on Thursday, US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed it had launched an "evening wave of strikes against Iran" on July 15.

According to CENTCOM, the operation targeted Iranian command centres, air defence sites, missile and drone capabilities, and coastal surveillance facilities to "further degrading Iran's ability to threaten innocent mariners operating aboard commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz."

Iran responded by launching attacks on what it described as American military and naval positions across the region.

Speaking at the 2026 Defence and Innovation Summit in Pennsylvania on Wednesday, Trump said the United States had acted because Iran had failed to comply with its obligations.

"I had to take tough action because they did not obey what they're supposed to obey," he said.

Trump added that he believed the conflict was moving in Washington's favour.

"We'll have Iran defeated soon," he stated.

His remarks came as fighting between the United States and Iran intensified.

Earlier on Wednesday, US Central Command confirmed two additional waves of strikes against Iranian targets.

Tehran responded by saying it "should not be afraid of war or negotiation" and described the Strait of Hormuz as "Iran's invincible red line."

Iran also announced it had launched retaliatory strikes against US targets across the Gulf .

"Should the United States continue to violate its obligations under the MoU, Iran will no longer be bound to fulfil its obligations under the MoU," Iravani said.

He accused Washington of violating the agreement by carrying out military strikes on Iranian territory, including attacks on southern cities and several islands in the Persian Gulf on July 7 and 8.

"The United States bears full international responsibility for all legal and political consequences arising from its unlawful action," he said.

Addressing the Strait of Hormuz, Iravani said responsibility for reopening the strategic waterway and conducting demining operations rested solely with Iran under the memorandum. He warned that any attempts by external powers to establish separate arrangements would breach the agreement, delay the resumption of commercial shipping and increase regional tensions.

The United States has said its latest strikes were carried out in response to attacks on commercial vessels transiting the strait. Tehran has not claimed responsibility for those attacks, Viory reports.

Speaking in a telephone interview on Wednesday, Gharibabadi criticised Trump's approach to international affairs and questioned the US administration's commitment to diplomacy.

"The president that America is currently facing does not recognise international structures, nor international responsibility and rights. He constantly uses offensive language against various countries," he explained.

Gharibabadi said Iran had not entered formal negotiations with the United States, despite technical working groups being established after talks in Switzerland.

"We had not yet commenced negotiations with the US," Gharibabadi continued, adding that technical working groups were established following a meeting in Switzerland, but no sessions have taken place.

He said Tehran cancelled a meeting scheduled for last week, citing what it described as aggressive actions in the Strait of Hormuz and attacks on Iranian territory.

Gharibabadi said Iran informed Washington that it "would not participate in those talks."

Earlier on Wednesday, US Central Command announced overnight strikes against Iran, accusing Tehran of targeting commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf also accused Washington of committing "serious violations of the memorandum of understanding," including "attacks on southern Iran."

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said it had launched strikes against 85 US military targets across the region in response.

Iran and the United States signed a memorandum of understanding on June 17 that included a ceasefire and the launch of an initial round of negotiations in Switzerland aimed at securing a final agreement.

In recent weeks, both governments have accused each other of breaching the terms of the agreement.

Responding to questions about the use of Italian military bases, Meloni said the government's position had remained unchanged.

"As far as the bases are concerned, it is not that we made decisions or choices in such a way, one day doing one thing and another day doing something else. We have had a very clear line from the beginning of the conflict in Iran, and we maintain that line," she said.

Her remarks came after US President Donald Trump criticised Italy's refusal to support US military action against Iran.

On Tuesday, Trump described Meloni as "a nice person" but said her decision not to become involved had affected their relationship.

"She refused to get involved, so it soured my relationship with her a little bit...I think she made a mistake," Trump told reporters in Turkey. Meloni also voiced concern over the worsening security situation in the Middle East, warning that further escalation could destabilise the wider region.

"I am obviously very concerned about what is happening in Iran," she said. "We cannot rule out that this might also spread to other areas of this delicate region." The Italian prime minister argued that military action had failed to produce lasting results and said diplomacy remained the best path toward resolving the crisis.

On NATO, Meloni said discussions with allies had not included any plans to reduce US troop deployments in Europe. She added, however, that Washington had long called on European allies to assume a greater share of the alliance's defence responsibilities.

Speaking ahead of talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara on Tuesday, Trump said the United States did not require military assistance but wanted to know which allies would stand alongside Washington.

"We didn't need any help at all [...] I was testing people . I was testing to see whether or not they'd be there. Because I'd said that we helped them, but I'm not sure that they'd be there for us," he stated.

Trump claimed several European allies declined to support the United States.

"Italy turned us down. Germany turned us down. France turned us down," he continued. "Why are we spending hundreds of billions of dollars and they're not there for us? We've always been there for them."

Asked whether the United States could reduce its military presence in Europe, Trump said he was dissatisfied with NATO's response during the conflict with Iran.

"I was very disappointed with NATO [...] We weren't treated well because we did something in Iran. We don't need anybody's help. I didn't even want the help," he said.

He also questioned the value of continued US investment in the alliance.

"We've invested trillions of dollars in NATO. Why? To protect European countries and others," he added. "You would think that they'd be very willing to do something to help us."

Trump made the remarks as leaders from all 32 NATO member states gathered in Ankara for a two-day summit focused on defence spending, arms production and support for Ukraine.

His comments shifted attention toward burden-sharing within the alliance and the future of the US military presence in Europe.

Speaking about Iran, Trump said his administration's priority remained preventing Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.

"I went in for one reason very strongly, that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon," he said.

Trump also claimed the United States would take possession of Iran's enriched nuclear material.

"We're going to be getting the, as I call it, dust, the enriched material, nuclear dust, I call it. It seems to have taken off, but it's enriched material. We're getting it."

He said lower global oil prices reflected actions taken by the United States and argued that predictions of a sharp increase in oil prices had not materialised.

According to Trump, US naval operations disrupted maritime activity through the Strait of Hormuz by targeting Iranian capabilities.

"So we took them out late at night with no lights, with no nothing, and our great Navy, which did the greatest blockade anyone's ever seen. Not one ship got through in two months."

Trump said the blockade was later eased because negotiations were progressing.

"And we then freed up the blockade because we're close to maybe making a deal. I don't know."

Despite expressing hope for a diplomatic outcome, he warned that military action remained an option.

"Look, we're going to win one way or the other. We're either going to make a deal or we're going to finish the job, okay? And it won't be tough to finish the job."

Trump said he preferred an agreement because he did not want ordinary Iranians to suffer.

"I'd rather make a deal because I don't want to affect 91 million people."

He added that the United States had the capability to rapidly strike Iran's critical infrastructure if necessary.

"We can knock down their bridges in one hour. We can knock out their energy supply, all of those big plants that they built, big, beautiful, modern plants."

"We can knock out their electricity and power generating plants in, I would say, a small part of an afternoon. Every plant will be gone. And they know that. They know that."

Among those attending was Reyhaneh Abdi, who spoke of her grief during the ceremony.

"I loved my leader with all my soul, and my greatest wish was to sacrifice my life for him, but it didn't happen. Now, I am deeply ashamed before my leader that I survived, while my leader was martyred, by the most wicked creatures and the lowest of people ," she said.

Another mourner, Saeid Khane-Baz, said Khamenei's death would not weaken the Islamic Republic.

"They are so weak to think that by martyring the high official, the commander-in-chief, the Supreme Leader, the country will be destroyed. No, they are mistaken. They have trained many soldiers. I am also a soldier. We are all soldiers, and we will remain soldiers of this country," he said.

Iranian authorities have introduced extensive arrangements to accommodate the large crowds, converting mosques, parks and stadiums into temporary facilities and setting up camps for mourners.

A public funeral procession is scheduled to take place on July 6 before ceremonies move to the holy city of Qom on July 7.

The funeral observances are expected to conclude in Mashhad, where Khamenei is due to be buried at the Imam Reza shrine on July 9.

“Our rise to being the world's strongest and most powerful nation was no accident of history . We rebuilt our military in my first term. We use it a little bit in our... Actually, I should say third term, but I won't do that because I don't want any controversy,” he said.

“But we use it, and we've had tremendous success. You look at Venezuela , you look at Iran. We wiped it out. Wiped out their military.”

Later in the speech, Trump compared a recent US operation against Iran to the US Navy’s victory over Spain at the Battle of Manila Bay in 1898.

“To its right, the banner that flew atop our flagship after America's Navy sank the Spanish fleet to the bottom of the Manila Bay, one of the greatest naval victories in history, much like our recent victory by sinking the entire Iranian Navy, 159 ships to the bottom of the sea, all done in just a moment's time. Happened very quickly,” he said.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran following recent military exchanges and ongoing disputes over Iran’s nuclear programme and regional security.

"We beat Venezuela in one day, and we knocked the hell out of Iran. They're dying to settle. They want to settle so badly. We gave them a week off for a funeral because we're nice," Trump said.

Trump made the remarks while highlighting what he described as America's military strength and global leadership. He also praised the country's achievements over the past 250 years, citing advances in science, technology, culture and space exploration .

"For 250 years, the entire world has looked to our country and been inspired by the leaps of progress, feats of strength, and acts of selflessness, faith, and hope that could only have happened right here," he said.

The president also pointed to US accomplishments ranging from mapping the human genome and landing astronauts on the moon to its influence in music, sports and innovation. He noted that the United States has won the most Olympic medals and Nobel Prizes, before joking that he had yet to receive the prestigious award himself.

The diplomatic meetings took place as Iran entered several days of national mourning before Khamenei's funeral and burial ceremonies.

Among the first leaders to arrive was Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, who was welcomed by Pezeshkian before joining a tribute ceremony in honour of Khamenei.

Pezeshkian also held separate meetings with Turkmenistan's National Leader Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow and Tajik President Emomali Rahmon after receiving them in the Iranian capital.

The visits formed part of a broader diplomatic programme involving foreign leaders and officials travelling to Tehran to pay their respects to Khamenei.

The funeral, which was postponed for several months following Khamenei's death in a joint US-Israeli airstrike earlier this year, will begin on July 4 at Tehran's Imam Khomeini Mosalla.

Mourners are expected to gather there over two days before a public funeral procession takes place on July 6.

The ceremonies will then move to the holy city of Qom on July 7 before concluding with the final procession and burial at the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad on July 9.

Iranian authorities have prepared accommodation in mosques, stadiums, parks and temporary camps to receive the large number of mourners expected to attend.

Delegations, government officials and religious leaders from more than 90 countries are expected at the ceremonies, including Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and senior representatives from Russia , China, India and Iraq.

Iran finished third in Group G with three points after drawing all three matches against Belgium, Egypt and New Zealand, missing out on a place in the knockout stage.

Senior figures in Iranian football blamed tournament conditions and restrictions imposed during the competition for the team's early exit.

"For the next 50 years, this host country (US) cannot stage the World Cup," said Amir Mehdi Alavi of Iran's football federation.

"Not only Iran, but all the other teams were upset. Look at the match lighting; look at the hydration facilities provided for the players. It proved itself incapable of hosting."

Heydar Baharvand, president of the Iranian Football League Organisation, claimed the team's elimination was influenced by actions taken by the United States.

"Look, we are the only national team that was eliminated without a loss, and that was due to the sabotage carried out by the US government ," he said.

Iran was based in Tijuana, Mexico, throughout the tournament after facing visa issues and restrictions on entering the United States.

One supporter, Karami, also criticised the tournament organisers, saying the team had not been treated fairly.

"The organising committee did not treat our national team with the fairness they deserved; they showed a lack of consideration regarding the flights to and from venues, which, to put it plainly, affected the boys' morale."

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the first tournament to feature 48 teams and is jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. The competition runs from June 11 to July 19 across 16 host cities in North America .

Speaking during the second part of a televised interview broadcast by Iranian state television on Wednesday, Ghalibaf said decisions on access to nuclear facilities rested with Iran's Supreme National Security Council.

"Under no circumstances will access be granted on sites [Nuclear] that have been bombed and damaged," he said, adding: "The Supreme National Security Council is the body authorised to determine access."

According to Ghalibaf, international inspectors currently have access to only two nuclear facilities: Bushehr and the Tehran research reactor.

His remarks came after US Vice President JD Vance announced following talks with Iranian officials in Switzerland that both countries had agreed to allow the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to visit Iranian sites.

Last week, US President Donald Trump also said IAEA inspectors would enter Iran "at the appropriate time."

Iran's position followed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Tehran and Washington last month aimed at ending the war . The agreement was followed by the first round of negotiations toward a final deal.

Speaking at the opening of the Great American State Fair in Washington DC on Wednesday, Trump described the recent agreement with Iran as a historic breakthrough.

"Last week, we signed a historic agreement to end the conflict with Iran, fully open the Strait of Hormuz, and accomplish what no president has ever been able to accomplish before. Iran will never have a nuclear weapon. That's done," Trump said.

He claimed the agreement had removed a long-standing regional threat.

"Their leadership has been obliterated. And for the first time in 3,000 years, we are finally going to have peace in the Middle East. We're going to have peace in the Middle East," he added.

Trump also praised the US military's recent operations in Iran and Venezuela , suggesting Washington remained prepared to take further action if necessary.

"How good is our military ? One week, Iran was essentially finished. In one hour, Venezuela was finished. And I guess we have other things in store, but we don't want to get carried away," he said.

The remarks came as Trump launched the Freedom 250 celebrations on the National Mall during a rally marking the opening of the Great American State Fair.

The event opens to the public on June 25 and runs until July 10, featuring exhibitions, performances, food, attractions and cultural displays representing all 50 US states and six territories.

The celebrations will culminate on July 4, marking 250 years since the adoption of the United States Declaration of Independence.

Developments dominating regional attention include a breakthrough in negotiations between the United States and Iran, which concluded high-level talks at the Swiss resort of Bürgenstock with an agreement to pursue a final settlement within 60 days. The negotiations were conducted under the framework of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, with mediation from Qatar and Pakistan. US Vice President JD Vance led the American delegation, while senior Iranian officials represented Tehran. According to the joint statement issued after the talks, both sides agreed on a roadmap covering nuclear issues, regional security, sanctions relief, and confidence-building measures. Mediators described the discussions as “positive and constructive”, although officials acknowledged that substantial differences remain. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi later described the negotiations as having made “major progress”, particularly regarding oil exports, financial restrictions, and future economic cooperation. For Syria, the talks are significant because any broader US-Iran understanding could directly affect regional conflict dynamics, sanctions regimes, and the balance of power involving Iran-backed groups operating across the Levant.

Washington and Tehran establish a direct Hormuz communication channel

One of the most important outcomes of the Swiss negotiations was the establishment of a direct communication mechanism between the United States and Iran to protect shipping through the Strait of Hormuz , one of the world's most critical energy chokepoints. Mediators said the hotline was designed to avoid “incidents and miscommunication” as maritime traffic gradually resumes following months of disruption. The agreement comes after prolonged instability in the waterway, through which roughly a fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies normally pass. Qatar and Pakistan argued that direct communication is essential to prevent accidental escalation, false alarms, or interference by non-state actors. The move reflects growing recognition that maritime security has become inseparable from broader diplomatic negotiations. For Syria and the wider Middle East, uninterrupted shipping through Hormuz remains critical because energy prices, trade flows, and regional economic stability are heavily influenced by developments in the Gulf.

Massive explosion at Qatar’s Ras Laffan gas hub raises energy security concerns

Regional energy markets were shaken by a major explosion at Qatar’s Ras Laffan Industrial City, home to the world's largest liquefied natural gas processing and export facilities. The blast occurred on 21 June 2026 during restart operations at the Barzan gas facility, one of Qatar’s most strategically important energy sites. Qatari authorities reported that at least 13 people were killed, 66 were injured, and 18 were missing after the explosion. Emergency crews launched extensive rescue operations while investigators worked to determine the cause of the incident. QatarEnergy stated that exports continued, but the accident nevertheless sparked concern across global energy markets because of Ras Laffan’s central role in international LNG supply chains. The incident highlights the vulnerability of regional energy infrastructure at a time when Middle Eastern stability remains closely linked to global energy security. Any disruption to Gulf gas exports has the potential to affect energy prices, industrial supply chains, and economic recovery efforts across multiple continents.

Lebanon ceasefire and Hormuz reopening dominate first round of Swiss talks

Beyond the nuclear file, discussions in Switzerland focused heavily on regional security issues, particularly the situation in Lebanon and the future status of the Strait of Hormuz . According to reports from the negotiations, both sides explored mechanisms to reduce tensions involving Iran-backed groups and prevent the expansion of regional conflict. Negotiators reportedly discussed ceasefire arrangements linked to Lebanon, maritime security guarantees, and measures intended to prevent future confrontations between regional actors. The talks reflected a growing understanding that any durable agreement between Washington and Tehran must address interconnected regional conflicts rather than focusing solely on nuclear issues. For Syria, these discussions are particularly relevant because developments in Lebanon, Iran, and the Gulf often have direct implications for regional military alignments, refugee movements, border security, and economic conditions.

Regional foreign ministers meet in Cairo as diplomacy intensifies

Diplomatic activity continued with a quadrilateral foreign ministers’ meeting in Cairo, where regional leaders discussed security coordination, conflict de-escalation , and the evolving diplomatic landscape following the US-Iran negotiations. The gathering reflected increasing efforts by Middle Eastern governments to shape outcomes through diplomacy rather than military confrontation. The meeting comes at a pivotal moment as governments across the region seek to stabilise trade routes, protect energy infrastructure, and prevent further escalation after months of heightened tensions. Officials focused on strengthening regional dialogue mechanisms and supporting initiatives aimed at reducing conflict risks. For Syria, the Cairo consultations underscore how regional diplomacy is becoming increasingly interconnected. Negotiations involving Iran, the Gulf states, Lebanon, Egypt, and international powers are likely to influence the broader political environment in which Syria's future security and reconstruction challenges will be addressed.

“If it was not for Iran's missile capabilities, our country would have been plundered and destroyed and plowed by the US regime and Israel and the Zionist regime, like what the Israelis did in Gaza,” he said.

Pezeshkian also supported Sharif’s position that the memorandum of understanding (MOU) reached between Tehran and Washington does not include provisions related to Iran’s ballistic missile programme.

“We shall never compromise on our missile programme and capabilities. And this shall never be part of any part of any agreement between Iran and any other parties,” he said.

The comments came after US Vice President JD Vance said President Donald Trump had not demanded that Iran abandon its right to self-defence.

Responding to questions about Washington’s position on Iran’s missile programme, Vance said countries retain the right to defend themselves. However, he added that the United States expects any final agreement to include restrictions preventing Iran from developing missiles capable of threatening large areas beyond its borders.

Pezeshkian’s visit to Pakistan included meetings with Prime Minister Sharif and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

The trip followed high-level talks between the United States and Iran held on June 21, 2026, in Burgenstock, Switzerland, with Pakistan and Qatar serving as mediators. The discussions focused on implementing the memorandum of understanding reached between Washington and Tehran.

Pakistan and Qatar later announced that both sides had agreed to establish a high-level committee and develop a roadmap toward a final agreement within 60 days.

The mediators also said a communication mechanism would be created to reduce the risk of incidents in the Strait of Hormuz and help safeguard commercial shipping through one of the world ’s most important energy transit routes.

He also claimed US President Donald Trump had shifted his position on Iran’s nuclear programme, saying Washington had moved from demanding unconditional surrender to acknowledging Iran’s rights. His remarks come as Qatar announced the start of the Lake Lucerne Summit, bringing together US and Iranian representatives with mediation from Qatar and Pakistan. Talks are expected to address a regional ceasefire, navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran’s nuclear programme, alongside a 14-point memorandum outlining de-escalation measures and a 60-day window for broader negotiations.

One Iranian participant said the deaths were part of a broader pattern of violence against children in the region.

"It was not surprising for me, because it is not the first time that they tried to kill children, to kill students. They did this pattern in other countries in the Middle East , like in Palestine, in Gaza, in Lebanon, in Syria," she said.

"The students are also a wealth for a country, because they will grow up and build their future. So it's not surprising for me they want to kill the children ," she added.

Another activist from the United States criticised Washington's response to the incident, accusing the country of avoiding accountability.

"I have never seen the country take responsibility for colonialism, imperialism, or the wars it causes. They always have an excuse," she said. "They are never going to take responsibility for the killings, the wars they start, or the aggressions they carry out. No, I do not expect to see that happen in my lifetime."

The Minab school strike was among the deadliest reported incidents of the conflict. Iranian authorities said up to 170 people were killed, including many children.

Others criticised the reliability of the agreement and the US position, suggesting shifting policies could undermine trust. The memorandum of understanding, signed by Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, reportedly includes a 60-day ceasefire framework, steps to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and further negotiations on Iran’s nuclear programme and regional security, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has resisted calls for withdrawal from Lebanon.

“In principle, I held a different view, but because of the commitment the honourable president, as the head of the Supreme National Security Council, gave me on his own behalf and on behalf of other members to safeguard the rights of the Iranian nation and the Resistance Front, and because he explicitly accepted responsibility for it, I granted permission for it,” the statement said.

Khamenei added that Pezeshkian had assured him Iran “will not submit” if the United States makes what he described as excessive demands during the next stage of negotiations.

He stressed that engaging in direct talks with Washington did not amount to “accepting the enemy's views.”

The supreme leader also praised Iranian officials for their efforts in advancing the negotiations and claimed that US President Donald Trump had used “various levers” in an attempt to secure the agreement.

The agreement follows months of fighting that disrupted regional security, shipping routes and energy markets .

The agreement, expected to be signed in Geneva, would see Iran commit to renouncing the development or acquisition of nuclear weapons in exchange for support to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route. The deal follows nearly four months of conflict involving the US and Israel, which has resulted in over 7,000 deaths, according to official figures, and has raised concerns over regional stability and energy markets .

The match saw Iran respond to two goals from New Zealand’s Elijah Just, with strikes from Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebbi earning a point. The result leaves all teams in Group G level, while Iran’s participation has been overshadowed by visa issues that forced changes to their tournament preparations.

“Iran's blocked assets will also be released according to the memorandum of understanding that will be signed,” he said.

Araghchi also indicated that the framework would address broader regional issues, including the conflict in Lebanon, as part of efforts to reduce tensions across the Middle East.

The foreign minister warned that opponents of the negotiations were attempting to derail the process, singling out Israel as the main adversary of the proposed agreement.

“I must explicitly state that this agreement has enemies, at the forefront of which is the Zionist regime, and they are looking for pretexts to disrupt this agreement,” he said.

He stressed that pressure and threats would not change Iran's position and could instead undermine diplomatic progress.

“In these circumstances, threats are not only ineffective but also set back a potential agreement; threats must stop, and we must speak with the language of respect in order for us to reach an agreement,” Araghchi said.

His comments came after U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday that a deal with Iran could be signed “this weekend” and suggested a formal signing ceremony could take place in Europe.

Trump also said he had cancelled a planned military strike on Iran following recent exchanges of attacks between the two countries, including incidents linked to a U.S. Apache helicopter crash that Washington blamed on an Iranian drone.

“Of course, it is natural for the US President to make such remarks because he has gained nothing,” Azizi said. “He did not achieve anything in the 40-day war, nor in these times. Now, because he has an empty track record and empty hands, and has incurred very heavy costs in this war that have brought no gains for the Americans, while also causing numerous economic problems for the world and the Americans, he is forced to make these threats.”

His comments came amid continued tensions between Tehran and Washington despite ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a broader agreement following the conflict.

Azizi warned that any future military action against Iran would be met with a stronger response from Tehran.

“However, he should know that this is Iran. This is a united front with a firm ideology based on the principles and ideals of Islam ,” he said.

“Just as our nation and our armed forces stood united during the Ramadan war, should he take any uncalculated action, he will definitely receive a more regretful, more painful, and undoubtedly more decisive response.”

The remarks follow recent warnings from Trump, who has suggested that further military action against Iran remains an option if negotiations fail or if Tehran resumes activities Washington views as threatening regional security .

“We just made a great settlement of the war with Iran, and we're going to be subject to finalisation of documents,” Trump said. “We should get done over the next few days. Probably have a signing maybe in Europe.”

The announcement came after Trump said he had cancelled planned military strikes against Iran following an exchange of attacks between the two sides. Tensions had also escalated earlier in the week after the crash of a US Apache helicopter, which Washington blamed on an Iranian drone.

Iran has carried out strikes against US military assets in Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait during the conflict. Trump said the agreement would ensure that Iran never acquires a nuclear weapon, describing it as the central objective of the negotiations.

“Most importantly, we have a deal that Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, which was the whole purpose of what we had to go through to get this,” he said.

The president also said he had spoken with leaders across the Middle East, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as officials from Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait and Turkey.

Trump claimed regional leaders welcomed the breakthrough and said the agreement could pave the way for improved relations across the region.

“The whole Middle East is happy,” he said. Iran had not publicly commented on Trump's announcement at the time of publication.

Speakers at the event linked the situation to broader geopolitical tensions, while highlighting India’s historical ties with Iran. The gathering comes amid ongoing regional conflict and heightened tensions involving Iran and its allies.

“The aggressive Zionist regime, by repeatedly violating the ceasefire and with the green light and support of the criminal United States and the silence of international bodies, has increased its wickedness against the oppressed people of Lebanon day by day, committing war crimes by using prohibited weapons, including phosphorus bombs,” Zolfaghari said.

He claimed that Iran had previously warned Israel against expanding its military campaign in Lebanon, particularly in Beirut’s southern suburbs.

“Despite previous warnings from the Islamic Republic of Iran, the child-killing Zionist regime, having crossed all red lines and increased its attacks in southern Lebanon, has targeted Beirut’s Dahiyeh. We had warned that if the crimes in Beirut’s Dahiyeh expand, we would attack targets within the occupied territories.”

Zolfaghari called on Israel to halt its military operations in southern Lebanon and Beirut’s Dahiyeh district.

“The Zionist army must stop its attacks on southern Lebanon and Dahiyeh.”

He also warned of further action if Israel expands its operations or responds to Iran’s recent attacks.

“Should it expand its attacks on that region or respond to Iran's action, it will face even more crushing and regrettable blows, and devastating attacks will be launched against the regime and its supporters.”

The statement comes amid escalating tensions following Israeli airstrikes in Beirut’s southern suburbs and Iranian missile launches toward Israeli territory. Both sides have exchanged threats as concerns grow over a wider regional conflict involving Israel, Iran and Hezbollah.

“We have prepared for this. The IDF is strongly prepared in defence and strongly prepared in offence. Air defence systems are deployed all across the country,” Defrin said.

He added that Israel’s military leadership was assessing the situation and preparing further actions.

Defrin accused Iran of escalating tensions through direct missile attacks.

“The Iranian terror regime made a grave mistake when it chose terrorism once again. The regime is attempting to create a new equation by conducting direct fire into our territory in response to IDF strikes in the Dahiyeh. We will not allow this.”

The spokesperson said Israeli strikes in Beirut’s southern suburbs had been carried out in response to attacks from Hezbollah.

“We struck in the Dahiyeh following Hezbollah's relentless firing toward northern communities. The IDF will continue to operate throughout Lebanon and will deepen the blow to the Hezbollah terrorist organisation. We will not allow continued firing toward the citizens of the State of Israel.”

The statement came amid escalating hostilities involving Israel, Iran and Hezbollah, following Israeli strikes in Beirut’s southern suburbs and subsequent missile launches attributed to Iran.

One missile carried a message that read: “In the name of God, a God whose power is greater than any ship, plane, or army. The God of Christ and the God of Moses, the God of all free people of the world . To all the people of the world. We are fighting a criminal gang, the corrupt people of Epstein Island. We will not compromise on the security of our people. To rid the world of corruption and usury. Right on the path of Jesus and Moses.”

The footage also showed a drawing depicting Israeli soldiers carrying Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu inside a concrete cube.

Additional scenes showed multiple missiles being launched into the night sky. The IRGC did not provide details on the specific targets in the footage.

The video was released amid ongoing hostilities between Iran and Israel, with both sides reporting military operations and missile attacks in recent days. Iranian officials have described the launches as part of their response to Israeli actions, while Israel has continued to activate its air defence systems against incoming projectiles.

“There are 15 people and most are team managers, part of the technical staff as well,” he said. “If they do not show up, it will be a challenge for our team.”

Despite the setback, the ambassador said Iran remained determined to participate in the tournament and would continue efforts to secure the necessary travel documents.

Pasandideh described the World Cup as an opportunity to showcase Iranian talent and promote international understanding through sport.

“The presence of the Iranian national football team in the World Cup is an opportunity to showcase the sporting capabilities of Iranian youth and, at the same time, strengthen friendship and understanding between peoples,” he said.

He stressed that sporting events should remain separate from political disputes. “We believe that sports should be a bridge to bring people together and not a tool to impose restrictions or exclusions. Sports should unite nations, not separate them,” he added.

The ambassador called on FIFA to engage with the relevant authorities to ensure the full participation of Iran's delegation in matches scheduled in Los Angeles and Seattle.

The visa dispute comes on the back of ongoing tensions between Tehran and Washington and could complicate preparations for Iran's opening World Cup match against New Zealand on June 15 in Los Angeles.

Prabowo Subianto told Atlantico that he did not regret radical decisions such as the creation of the powerful Danantara wealth fund.

“Some of the changes we introduced may have rattled people in the short run, but it is for the good of the country in the long run,” he said in an interview, pointing out that he has cut $18 billion of what he described as “fat” from the government budget.

This is money that would have gone “to the private coffers of corrupt officials - not for the people,” he claimed.

The Indonesian rupiah is at around record lows against the dollar as a result of surging energy prices caused by the War in Iran. Indonesia, like most of its neighbours, is a net oil importer which relies significantly on supplies from the Middle East.

But an even bigger drag has been years of trade manipulation, which has seen hundreds of billions of dollars lost as a result of companies avoiding levies by underreporting international transactions. Indonesia’s economy would have been 60 per cent larger today without this fraud, Prabowo said, adding that a range of measures were set to deliver results for his people in the coming years.

“I must admit, we could do better in communicating to the outside world what we are doing in Indonesia,” he said.  “The changes we are making today, with Danantara, with our single window for export policy, with the free meals program, with our Village Cooperatives and fisherman villages, are transformational.”

He hit out at biased commentators who he said have been misrepresenting these projects. 

The biggest economic shakeup of Prabowo’s presidency has been the creation of Danantara Indonesia, the seventh-largest sovereign wealth fund in the world, managing $900 billion in assets. 

The fund manages Indonesia’s vast state-owned enterprise portfolio and is charged with helping achieve government targets around economic growth and industrial transformation.

The fund reports to the presidency, unlike some other national wealth funds, because it needs to be accountable to the Indonesian people, Prabowo said. But it answers operationally to its own supervisory board and takes day-to-day decisions independently.

Might vs Right

Indonesia, the world’s fourth most populous country, has always steadfastly pursued a policy of non-alignment. Prabowo said the country has benefitted from tensions between China and the US as businesses seek alternative locations to diversify their supply chains. But he noted that the long-term interest of the whole world is for a harmonious relationship between the two superpowers.

Prabowo reiterated his absolute support for freedom of navigation, rejecting suggestions that Indonesia might one day seek to monetise shipping through the Strait of Malacca as Iran is trying to do in Hormuz. The country is expanding its military to ensure that it can defend the rules-based order, he told Atlantico: “Might must not make right.”

Indonesia subscribes to the One China policy, and Prabowo said that he believes China will always act “rationally” in its relations with Taiwan. Image via Deposit Photos

“In response to this aggression and violation of the Strait of Hormuz regulations, the enemy’s American-Zionist vessel named Panaya was targeted by missiles from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy,” the report stated.

The broadcaster also said the United States had carried out another strike on Iranian infrastructure.

“It is mentioned that the American enemy, in another act of aggression, targeted a telecommunications tower of the Corps in the south of Qeshm Island,” it added.

Iran said it responded by targeting US-linked military sites in the region.

“In response to this aggression, their airbase and helicopter base located in one of the countries in the region, as well as the headquarters of the Fifth Fleet, were subjected to missile and drone attacks by the Aerospace Force of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps,” the report said.

Kuwait’s military said drones struck its international airport, causing “significant” damage. However, US Central Command (CENTCOM) appeared to dispute the extent of the attack.

“Two Iranian missiles fired at Kuwait fell short or broke apart en route, and three missiles launched at Bahrain were immediately intercepted by US and Bahrain air defence forces,” CENTCOM said.

US media reported that President Donald Trump had requested changes to the framework of a potential agreement after talks with aides, including issues related to the Strait of Hormuz, the removal of enriched uranium, and negotiations on Iran’s nuclear deal.

Tehran said on Monday, June 1, that the United States was “constantly changing its views and putting forward new or contradictory demands.”

The incident has further escalated tensions, with Russia denouncing the strike as terrorism and launching retaliatory attacks on Ukrainian military infrastructure. Meanwhile, conflicting claims persist over the intended target of the original strike. Baqaei also addressed broader geopolitical tensions, criticising US actions and noting ongoing but inconclusive diplomatic exchanges between Tehran and Washington.

“They asked us if they can stay overnight in Mexico. And we said yes, there is no problem, we have no issue with it. So, they are looking for the venue to be in Tijuana, so that they can stay overnight and travel to the games that will take place in the United States . So, we have no reason to deny them the possibility of staying in Mexico,” the Mexican president stated.

Iran is scheduled to play all three of its group-stage matches in the United States during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to Sheinbaum, US authorities reportedly do not want the team based in the country between matches.

The proposed arrangement would likely see the Iranian team staying in Tijuana, a Mexican border city near Southern California , while travelling into the United States for matches.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The tournament is expected to involve complex travel and coordination arrangements as teams move across North America for the expanded competition.

“Our plan is first to draft a memorandum of understanding, a framework agreement consisting of 14 articles,” Baqaei said.

He said the proposed document would address issues including the end of what Iran describes as a U.S. naval blockade and the release of frozen Iranian assets.

“The end of US naval aggression… along with issues related to the release of Iran’s frozen assets, are the main topics addressed by this memorandum,” he added.

Baqaei said the nuclear issue would not be dealt with in detail at this stage, despite repeated U.S. demands for it to remain central to negotiations.

“The nuclear issue was a pretext for two aggressive wars against the Iranian people ,” he said.

He added that Tehran was prioritising efforts to end the conflict “on all fronts, including Lebanon.”

Baqaei thanked Pakistan for mediating talks between Tehran and Washington, with support from regional actors including Qatar, and said detailed discussions could continue for between 30 and 60 days.

The comments come amid ongoing tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has restricted access for what it calls “unfriendly” countries while the United States maintains a naval blockade on Iranian ports.

Earlier this week, Baqaei said Iran was coordinating with Oman and other regional parties on a mechanism governing navigation through the strategic waterway.

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Thursday that Washington wanted the Strait of Hormuz to remain “free” and insisted that “no fees should be imposed.”

Trump also claimed the U.S. had “full control” over the strait and described the naval blockade on Iran as “100% effective.”

For weeks, journalists have repeatedly asked senior American officials for clarity. Questions have been put to military spokespeople, White House officials and President Donald Trump himself. Each time, the answers have been evasive, contradictory or incomplete.

The strange part is that most investigators already believe they know exactly what happened.

According to reporting from outlets including The New York Times , the BBC, Al Jazeera and the investigative group Bellingcat, the strike was almost certainly carried out by the United States .

Washington, however, still refuses to publicly admit responsibility.

The strike

To understand the controversy, it is important to understand where the school was located.

The building stood only a few hundred metres from a facility operated by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, or IRGC. Military analysts say the compound functioned as a communications and logistics centre and would likely have been considered a legitimate military target during the opening phase of the conflict.

The problem is what happened alongside that strike.

The attack took place on the first day of the war. In the middle of ongoing diplomatic talks, the United States launched a sudden large-scale assault against Iranian military infrastructure.

At approximately 9:40am on 28 February, cruise missiles struck radar installations while bombs dropped by American and Israeli aircraft destroyed air defence systems and IRGC facilities across Iran.

Roughly an hour later, a military base near Minab was hit.

At some point during the attacks, children at the school were reportedly instructed to shelter inside a prayer hall while waiting for parents to collect them. Then the explosion hit.

The evidence

Investigators say the evidence pointing towards American responsibility is extensive.

Modern warfare leaves behind an enormous amount of forensic data, and analysts were able to reconstruct the attack using missile fragments, radar tracking, launch timing, satellite imagery, acoustic analysis and dozens of videos posted online.

The most significant evidence was the missile debris recovered from the scene.

Several independent analysts identified fragments consistent with a Tomahawk cruise missile, a weapon operated by the United States Navy.

Footage posted online showed another Tomahawk missile striking the nearby IRGC compound during the same attack window, while Israel publicly stated that it was not operating in the area at the time.

Initially, American officials blamed Iran itself for the explosion. Later, some suggested unnamed regional actors might have been responsible. Eventually, the White House settled on a more familiar response: that an investigation was ongoing.

Playing for time

If the evidence appears so overwhelming, why does Washington still refuse to openly acknowledge what happened?

The answer is political.

Outside the United States, many governments, analysts and observers have already reached their conclusions. Domestically, however, the calculation is very different.

As long as the administration refuses to confirm responsibility, supporters can continue dismissing reports of American involvement as propaganda, misinformation or hostile narratives pushed by Iran.

Without an official admission, there is no definitive political reckoning.

For now, at least.

That strategy, however, may not be sustainable indefinitely.

Pressure is already growing in Congress. Human rights organisations are demanding transparency, while international investigators continue collecting evidence.

If casualty estimates are accurate, the attack would represent the deadliest killing of civilians by a single American airstrike since the atomic bombing of Nagasaki.

That is not the sort of event likely to disappear quietly.

The political calculation

Timing is central to the administration’s approach.

From the White House perspective, admitting responsibility while the war is still ongoing could be politically catastrophic. Admitting it afterwards may be survivable, particularly if the administration can argue the conflict achieved a historic strategic success.

Officials are expected to frame the war as having prevented a wider regional conflict and stopped Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.

Under that argument, the deaths in Minab could then be presented not as meaningless, but as the tragic cost of a necessary victory.

The political optics are very different.

More than 100 children killed during an open-ended and inconclusive war would provoke outrage. More than 100 children killed during a conflict later presented as preventing nuclear war is a narrative the administration may believe the American public is more willing to accept, especially when the victims were Iranian rather than American.

That is why the investigation appears stalled.

Not abandoned. Delayed.

Waiting for a moment when the truth becomes politically manageable. World Reframed episode 41.

World Reframed is produced in London by Global South World, part of the Impactum Group. Its editors are Duncan Hooper and Ismail Akwei.

ISSN 2978-4891

The White House has not formally accepted responsibility. However, investigations by Amnesty International, the Associated Press, Sky News and The Guardian all cited forensic evidence, satellite imagery and verified video footage suggesting the weapon used was a U.S. Tomahawk missile.

President Donald Trump initially denied American involvement and suggested Iranian forces may have hit the school themselves. But reporting by The Guardian said later intelligence assessments reviewed within the U.S. government contradicted those claims.

Amnesty International said evidence indicated the school was struck alongside nearby Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps facilities and accused U.S. forces of failing to take adequate precautions to protect civilians. The organisation described the attack as a possible violation of international humanitarian law.

“This harrowing attack on a school, with classrooms full of children, is a sickening illustration of the catastrophic and entirely predictable price civilians are paying during this armed conflict,” Erika Guevara-Rosas, Amnesty International’s Senior Director of Research, Advocacy, Policy and Campaigns, said in a March statement.

Weapons analysts interviewed by Reuters and other outlets noted that Iran is not known to possess Tomahawk missiles, further undermining claims that Tehran may have been responsible for the strike.

The Pentagon says its investigation remains ongoing. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth previously confirmed that an independent review had been launched into the incident, as human rights groups and UN experts continue to call for the findings to be made public.

“We were getting ready to do a very major attack tomorrow. I’ve put it off for a little while, hopefully, maybe forever, but possibly for a little while because we’ve had very big discussions with Iran and we’ll see what they amount to,” Trump said.

He added that leaders from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates had urged Washington to allow more time for diplomacy.

“I was asked by Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE and some others if we could put it off for 2 or 3 days, a short period of time, because they think that they are getting very close to making a deal,” he stated.

Earlier, Trump posted a longer statement on Truth Social confirming the discussions with Gulf leaders.

“I have been asked by the Emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, and the President of the United Arab Emirates, Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to hold off on our planned Military attack of the Islamic Republic of Iran, which was scheduled for tomorrow, in that serious negotiations are now taking place,” Trump wrote.

He added that Gulf leaders believed a deal could still be reached.

A ceasefire between the US and Iran was declared in April, with both sides reportedly exchanging proposals through Pakistani mediators. However, tensions have continued in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has restricted passage for what it describes as “unfriendly” countries, while the United States continues restrictions targeting Iranian ports.

“Our eyes are open regarding Iran as well. I will speak today as I do every few days with our friend, President Trump,” Netanyahu said.

“I’ll surely hear impressions about his trip to China and perhaps about other things as well. There are certainly many possibilities. We are prepared for any scenario,” he added.

According to the Israeli prime minister’s spokesperson, Netanyahu and Trump discussed continued joint action regarding Iran during the phone call.

The conversation followed comments by Trump on Truth Social, warning Iran that the “clock is ticking.”

“Get moving, FAST, or there won’t be anything left of them,” Trump wrote on Sunday.

The Israeli leader said the Israel Defence Forces had expanded control in Gaza, claiming Israel now controls “not 50% there, but 60%” of the territory.

Netanyahu also referred to military operations in Lebanon, saying Israeli forces continue “seizing” and “clearing territory” there.

He further announced efforts to strengthen Israel’s response to drones and unmanned aerial vehicles, saying he had instructed a specialised team to develop new defence solutions.

“I told them something that surprised them a bit. You have no budget limit. Whatever it costs, it will cost. You also have no limitations, as far as I know, of creativity and imagination, because you are the best in the world ,” Netanyahu said.

On April 15, Trump announced a ten-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. The ceasefire was later extended on April 23 for an additional three weeks, followed by another 45-day extension announced on May 15 after a second round of US-mediated talks between Lebanese and Israeli officials.

“We declare very clearly that the current situation in the Strait of Hormuz and its global economic consequences are solely the responsibility of the initiators of the war against Iran,” Iravani said on Saturday.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world ’s most important oil shipping routes, carrying a significant share of global energy supplies.

The latest tensions follow months of conflict between Iran, the United States and Israel. Earlier this week, U.S. President Donald Trump described the ceasefire with Iran as being on “massive life support” and rejected Tehran’s latest proposal as “garbage,” “stupid” and “unacceptable.”

Iran’s Foreign Ministry defended the proposal, calling it “generous” and saying it included demands for an end to the war, the lifting of what it described as “maritime piracy,” and the release of Iranian assets frozen under U.S. pressure.

The United States and Israel launched a joint military operation against Iran on February 28. Iran later confirmed the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and announced that his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, would succeed him.

Tehran responded with missile strikes targeting Israel and several countries in the region.

On April 8, Trump announced a two-week truce to allow negotiations aimed at ending the crisis. The ceasefire was later extended indefinitely pending further Iranian proposals.

Pakistan hosted a first round of talks between U.S. and Iranian officials in Islamabad on April 11, but the negotiations ended without a breakthrough. A second round of talks has yet to take place.

Araghchi made the comments on the sidelines of the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi, held on May 14 and 15 under India ’s chairmanship. The gathering was overshadowed by divisions over the Iran conflict and ended without a joint statement.

Despite the impasse, Araghchi said Tehran had received messages indicating Washington was willing to continue talks.

His remarks came after U.S. President Donald Trump rejected Iran’s latest response, calling it “totally unacceptable” and warning that the ceasefire was on “life support.”

During a visit to China, Trump said he discussed the conflict with Chinese President Xi Jinping, claiming Beijing supported efforts to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

“He said he’s not going to give military equipment. That’s a big statement,” Trump said, referring to Xi.

Trump added that Xi “would like to see Hormuz Strait opened,” amid ongoing tensions over the key oil transit route. Recent reports said Trump and Xi discussed Iran, energy stability and the Strait of Hormuz during their meeting in Beijing.

Trump also said the talks covered trade , claiming Xi had agreed to order 200 Boeing aircraft.

“Boeing wanted 150. He got 200,” Trump said, describing the reported order as a major boost for U.S. jobs.

The remarks come as Washington continues efforts to keep the Strait of Hormuz open, while tensions with Iran remain high. China has publicly supported reopening the waterway and has denied allegations that it is supplying weapons to Tehran.

Whether you are a geography geek or a US president, maps are a good place to start.

From the Middle East, Central Asia, South Asia, and the Caucasus, Iran borders seven countries on land and six more across water.

It is also one of the world ’s oldest continuous civilisations, with a history that spans more than 4,000 years.

Today, with nearly 90 million people and a landmass exceeding 1.6 million square kilometres, Iran stands as one of the Middle East’s largest and most consequential states.

Iran’s terrain is defined by mountains and arid expanses, with little continuous flat land. The Zagros and Alborz mountain ranges dominate much of the landscape, while the Iranian Plateau forms its core.

To the east, vast deserts such as the Dasht-e Kavir and Dasht-e Lut stretch across large swathes of the country. These physical features are not just geographic, but they also shape settlement patterns, climate conditions and the development of infrastructure.

Historically, Iran was the centre of powerful empires that influenced language, trade, science and culture far beyond its borders. That legacy still runs through modern Iran, visible in its identity and regional reach. Despite invasions by Greeks, Ottomans, Russians and the British, the country has maintained a strong sense of sovereignty and identity.

Iran is far more complex, both from the inside and the outside. Farsi remains the dominant language, but the country is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including Azeris, Kurds, Baloch and Arabs, all of whom contribute to its cultural and political fabric.

As an energy giant, Iran sits on some of the world’s largest oil and gas reserves , holding roughly 10% of global oil and 15% of natural gas resources.

That alone makes it a major player in global energy markets. Despite heavy international sanctions, Iran continues to export large volumes of oil, primarily to China, demonstrating its resilience and continued relevance in global supply chains.

Its economy, valued at over $400 billion, blends state control with private enterprise, anchored by energy, manufacturing and a growing technology sector.

Modern Iran, however, cannot be understood without the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

It overthrew a Western-backed monarchy and replaced it with a theocratic system that still defines the country today.

And since the Revolution, Iran has pursued an independent and often confrontational foreign policy , positioning itself as a regional power and a counterweight to Western influence.

Its network of regional alliances, often referred to as the “Axis of Resistance”, extends its influence beyond its borders, reaching into Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen. Many of these connections relate to Iran's position as the dominant power of the Shia sect of Islam. In other cases, allies were drawn to Tehran by a mutual hatred of Israel.

The country is also enduring one of its worst environmental crises in decades, after more than five consecutive years of drought have pushed it toward what experts describe as “water bankruptcy.” Reservoirs are drying up, major cities are nearing “day zero” water shortages, and as many as 28 million people now face unreliable access to water. 

Even geography beyond its borders carries political weight.

The body of water to its south has been known in Iran and elsewhere for over 2,500 years as the “Persian Gulf.” Still, some Arab states refer to it as the “Arabian Gulf,” creating an ongoing geopolitical dispute.

For Iran, the name is not just symbolic; it is tied to history, identity and sovereignty.

At the edge of Iran’s southern coastline lies its most powerful strategic asset: the Strait of Hormuz.

This narrow waterway connects the Persian Gulf to the open ocean and carries more than 20% of the world’s oil supply.

It is one of the most critical chokepoints in global trade. Iran controls the northern side as well as a series of islands, and that gives it enormous leverage.

Over the decades, Tehran has repeatedly threatened to disrupt traffic through the strait during times of conflict.

And in 2026, those threats became reality, sending shocks through global energy markets.

At the same time, geopolitical tensions have sharply intensified. Following Israeli strikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites in February 2026, the United States joined the conflict with direct attacks, triggering a broader regional confrontation that continued for days.

The situation has since escalated into a wider crisis affecting global energy routes. Iran has launched retaliatory missile and drone attacks, while disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil transit chokepoint, have sent shocks through global markets.

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