Iran Foreign Minister Says Trust Gap Blocks U.S. Nuclear Talks

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said a lack of trust remains the main obstacle in talks with the United States over Iran’s nuclear program. ” He added that Iran would consider a diplomatic role for China, which previously helped restore ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia.

Israel and Lebanon agreed to extend their ceasefire for another 45 days after two days of meetings in Washington, the U.S. State Department said. The department said the sides will reconvene June 2 and 3, while military talks between the Israeli and Lebanese armies begin May 29.

Hezbollah, which is not part of the talks, has continued launching attacks. The Israeli military said it struck about 100 Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon since Friday in response to hostile aircraft, mortar shells, and explosive drones.

Lebanon’s health ministry reported three paramedics killed in a strike near Harouf and nearly 40 people wounded in strikes around Tyre. One Israeli soldier died in combat in southern Lebanon, bringing Israel’s total losses to 21 personnel since fighting with Hezbollah began in early March.

and Regional Developments President

Trump dismissed Iran’s latest proposal as “garbage” and demanded removal of highly enriched uranium. Iran maintains its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes. Russia has offered to take Iran’s uranium stockpile, though Araghchi said the proposal is not currently under active discussion.

A Chinese-owned ship was seized and taken into Iranian waters this week for inspection, according to the vessel’s security operator. The United Arab Emirates is accelerating work on a new oil pipeline to bypass the Strait of Hormuz, with the project expected to double export capacity through Fujairah next year.