Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has expressed reservations about the interim peace deal with the US, emboldening hardliners who oppose concessions. President Pezeshkian, a moderate, faces criticism as hardliners believe war could restart.
A prominent Iranian politician read out what he claimed was the final text of a US-Iran deal, warning it would turn Iran into a "US colony." This sparked outrage and protests, highlighting the regime's challenge in selling the deal domestically amidst internal opposition from hardliners and public fatigue.
US Vice President J.D. Vance criticized Israeli hardliners for opposing the US-Iran deal, urging diplomacy and questioning Israel's strategy of military action. Prime Minister Netanyahu, however, insists on maintaining troops in southern Lebanon.
Iran's hardline establishment is portraying the US-Iran framework deal as a strategic victory, emphasizing Tehran's resilience rather than concessions. Questions remain about the IRGC's influence on the terms, with hardliners like Kayhan newspaper's editor criticizing the lack of transparency. Opposition figures and Israeli officials have also expressed skepticism.
Hardline factions in Iran are protesting against a leaked memorandum of understanding with the US, fearing it will reshape foreign policy and internal power dynamics. Protests have occurred in Mashhad and Tehran, with calls for the resignation of key negotiators. Analysts suggest hardliners aim to show their influence despite likely being sidelined by the leadership.
Ethiopian federal government and TPLF negotiators signed a peace deal in Nov 2022. However, hardliners within TPLF and Eritrea's government oppose the agreement, with Eritrea allegedly brokering an alliance to reignite conflict and the TPLF preparing for an offensive.
Iran's IRGC deputy inspector, Brig. Gen. MohammadJafar Asadi, stated Iran is prepared for direct confrontation with the US and NATO, possessing undisclosed military capabilities. Meanwhile, indirect Iran-US communications on nuclear and regional issues have been paused for several days, with Iran seeking tangible benefits and guarantees.
Iran is reportedly considering using mine-carrying dolphins against US warships in the Strait of Hormuz amid rising regional tensions and an economic blockade. This unusual tactic, reflecting a push for new weapons, follows Iran's past acquisition of military-trained dolphins. The move comes as hardliners view the blockade as an act of war, potentially leading to renewed conflict.
Islamabad has seized chance to act as mediator in Iran war and hopes to reap diplomatic and economic benefitsMiddle East crisis – live updatesAs Pakistan works frantically to narrow differences between Iran and the US in its newfound role as global peacemaker, it is also seeking to recast its diplomatic standing and attract business.Pakistani officials, mediating between an unpredictable US president and hardliners in Tehran, were on Monday trying to coax both sides to put the conditions in place for a second round of talks in Islamabad this week, including easing the standoff in the strait of Hormuz. Pakistan was optimistic that the meeting would happen, viewing objections voiced by the Iranian side and Donald Trump’s threats as posturing for domestic audiences. Continue reading...
