US and Iran pursue permanent peace deal amid military escalation

The United States and Iran are conducting technical talks aimed at a permanent peace agreement by mid-August, despite recent airstrikes and attacks in the Strait of Hormuz.

• A US official confirmed that negotiations are ongoing and the US remains committed to a diplomatic solution, targeting a permanent agreement by mid-August.
• Trump announced the end of the MOU and ceasefire with Iran on Wednesday, ordering airstrikes, while the US focuses on reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
• Mediators from Qatar, Pakistan, Turkey, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia held phone calls with US and Iranian officials on Wednesday to de-escalate.
• A regional source stated that the recent Iranian attacks in Hormuz were orchestrated by elements within Iran opposing the MOU.