Donald Trump has stated that Iran can contact the United States by telephone if it wishes to negotiate an end to the ongoing war. In an interview with Fox News, Trump said, "If they want to talk, they can come to us, or they can call us. You know, there is a telephone. We have nice, secure lines."
Trump Cancels Pakistan Summit
This comes after Trump cancelled a trip by his envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Pakistan on Saturday, stating that traveling such a distance "without a plan" was not feasible. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, who had been in Islamabad for talks, left after meeting only with Pakistani officials but has since returned despite the absence of US counterparts.
Iran's New Proposal
According to Axios, Iran has presented a new proposal to the US through Pakistani mediators. The plan suggests reopening the Strait of Hormuz and ending the war before engaging in nuclear negotiations. This approach would bypass the contentious issue of Iran's enriched uranium stockpile. The ceasefire would be extended or made permanent, with nuclear talks beginning only after the strait is reopened and the US blockade lifted.
White House spokesperson Olivia Wales told Axios, "These are sensitive diplomatic discussions and the US will not negotiate through the press. The United States holds the cards and will only make a deal that puts the American people first, never allowing Iran to have a nuclear weapon."
Diplomatic Efforts Continue
Meanwhile, Iran's foreign minister Araqchi traveled to Saint Petersburg for talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin after shuttling between Pakistan and Oman. Iran's envoy in Russia, Kazem Jalali, described the visit as part of a "diplomatic jihad to advance the country's interests amid external threats."
Oil Prices Surge
Oil prices hit a three-week high of $107.97 a barrel on Monday as stalled peace talks prolonged disruptions to Middle East energy exports. Goldman Sachs raised its year-end Brent forecast to $90 a barrel, warning of "non-linear price increases" if inventories drop to critically low levels.
The UK government is ramping up planning for potential supply shortages. Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister Darren Jones warned that price hikes due to the war will be felt for at least eight months after the conflict ends, affecting energy, food, and flight prices.
Ceasefire Violations
Israel has ordered civilians to evacuate several towns in southern Lebanon despite a three-week ceasefire agreement. Hezbollah and Israel blame each other for violations. Iran and Oman have agreed to continue consultations on the Strait of Hormuz at the expert level.
