Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, Iran's parliamentary speaker and former IRGC commander, has emerged as a key negotiator in the US-Iran deal. Once an Israeli target, his pragmatic approach and deep ties to the regime's leadership make him a crucial figure in selling the ceasefire as a victory for Iran.
Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, Iran's parliamentary speaker and former IRGC commander, emerged as a key negotiator in the recent US-Iran deal, despite his past anti-US rhetoric. Analysts describe him as an "authoritarian technocrat" with deep ties to the regime, making him a pragmatic figure for the US to deal with.
Talks for a US-Iran peace agreement in Switzerland were cancelled after US VP JD Vance withdrew. Former President Trump described the deal as 'unconditional surrender' by Tehran. Meanwhile, stock markets remain near record highs despite uncertainty, and crude prices have steadied.
US Vice President JD Vance postponed a planned trip to Switzerland to meet Iranian negotiators regarding the implementation of a 14-point agreement to end the war between Washington and Tehran. The White House cited logistical challenges for the delay.
US Vice President JD Vance has postponed a planned trip to Switzerland where he was set to meet Iranian negotiators. The meeting aimed to discuss the implementation of a 14-point agreement between Tehran and Washington, which includes extending a ceasefire and opening the Strait of Hormuz.
Former EU negotiator Michel Barnier shares insights on Brexit, Boris Johnson's motivations, and the EU's future. He criticizes the 'great lie' that Brussels was solely responsible for UK problems post-Brexit and expresses concern about the rise of the far-right in Europe.
Former EU Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier stated the UK could rejoin the EU with special terms, retaining the pound and Schengen opt-outs. He believes this is possible due to existing precedents and that evidence of Brexit's negative impact is growing clearer for the British public.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni proposed appointing a single negotiator to engage with Russia on Ukraine during the G7 summit. She plans to raise the issue again at the upcoming EU summit, suggesting the negotiator should hail from a "medium-sized" European nation.
Russia anticipates a visit from US negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner for talks on Ukraine. The dialogue is ongoing, despite European and British disapproval, according to Kirill Dmitriev, CEO of the Russian Direct Investment Fund. Dates for the visit will be announced by the Russian presidential administration.
A US-Iran agreement aims to end hostilities and start 60-day negotiations on key issues, including Iran's nuclear program. However, significant disagreements on enrichment, missiles, and proxies remain unresolved, with observers calling it a 'deal-to-do-a-deal' that postpones critical decisions.
Iran's army warns of larger strikes on Tel Aviv and advises US base hosts to expel Americans. Meanwhile, US and Iran are reportedly close to signing a memorandum on the Strait of Hormuz and nuclear program, with a deal potentially signed by June 14. Tensions remain high with military actions and warnings.
Donald Trump reportedly had an angry phone call with Benjamin Netanyahu after Israel's strike on Beirut, warning the Israeli PM not to "blow it" as a peace deal with Iran nears final stages. Iran's negotiator criticized the US for perceived inability to fulfill commitments.
Iran's chief negotiator criticized the US and Israel's diplomatic strategy after an Israeli strike in Beirut killed three people. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated the "good cop, bad cop" approach is outdated and that continued Israeli attacks undermine any potential US-Iran agreement.
Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, stated that peace talks with the US are pointless following Israeli strikes on Beirut's southern suburbs. He cited the attacks as evidence of the US's inability or unwillingness to uphold its commitments, casting doubt on the finalization of a Middle East peace deal.
A US-Iran peace deal is jeopardized after Israel bombed Hezbollah infrastructure in Beirut, a violation of a ceasefire. Iran's top negotiator stated the US "lacks the will to fulfill its commitments or the ability to do so," casting doubt on the agreement scheduled for Sunday.
Iran's top negotiator Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf stated the US lacks the will or ability to uphold commitments following Israel's attack in Beirut. He suggested peace talks are pointless if commitments cannot be met, amid ongoing efforts to finalize a peace deal.
Qatari negotiators have arrived in Tehran to finalize an agreement aimed at ending a conflict between the US and Iran. The agreement, which has been ongoing for over three months, could be signed as early as Sunday, though hardline protesters in Iran have voiced opposition.
Milorad Dodik, leader of Bosnia and Herzegovina's Republika Srpska entity, stated that the EU does not want Gerhard Schroder to act as a negotiator with Russia. Dodik criticized EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and praised Schroder as a potential mediator, suggesting Russia's policy is one of "common sense."
An EU court adviser stated the European Commission should have been more transparent about its multi-million euro Covid vaccine contracts, citing a lack of clarity on the impartiality of negotiators.
The US launched new airstrikes on Iran overnight Thursday in response to 'continued aggression,' hours after President Trump vowed to hit Iran 'hard.' Iran reported explosions in multiple locations, and clashes occurred in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran also launched missiles at Jordan, Bahrain, and Kuwait.
Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov confirms ongoing contacts with US negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, with plans for their future visit to Russia being actively worked on.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has again proposed former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder as a potential negotiator for peace in Ukraine. German government sources dismissed the offer as part of Russia's "hybrid strategy."
EU trade chief Maros Sefcovic met China's Li Chenggang in Paris, calling for practical approaches and 'meaningful discussion' to address trade concerns like non-market practices and overcapacity.
President Trump faces pressure over the Iran conflict stalemate. A ceasefire extension awaits his approval, but he demands changes, while Iran shows no inclination to concede. Allies and advisors caution against resuming bombing due to depleted munitions and regional fears.
