Simon Mabon, Professor of International Politics and Middle East Studies at Lancaster University, joins FRANCE 24 to discuss the latest developments in the Middle East. While Iran and the United States are still exploring a possible deal to end the conflict, both sides are now downplaying hopes of an imminent breakthrough after appearing close to an agreement just days ago. Mabon explains that Iran may currently hold leverage through its influence over the Strait of Hormuz, increasing pressure on both President Donald Trump and the global economy, while Tehran also seeks economic guarantees after years of sanctions. The Iranian nuclear programme remains a major obstacle, with Israel likely pushing behind the scenes against any agreement that fails to address it directly.

Anahita Motazed Rad, Associate Fellow at the London School of Economics, is our guest.

US President Donald Trump flagged progress in talks with Iran, Tehran has warned that major gaps still stand in the way of dialing down the conflict.

FRANCE 24 correspondent Fraser Jackson speaks from Washington, DC on the reported progress in the talks on ending the US-Israeli war on Iran.

US President Donald Trump flagged progress in talks with Iran, Tehran has warned that major gaps still stand in the way of dialing down the conflict.

A "largely negotiated" memorandum of understanding on an Iran peace deal would reopen the Strait of Hormuz, U.S. President Donald Trump said on Saturday, as expectations rose…

Jennifer Gavito, Former US State Department official, Senior Advisor, The Cohen Group, is our guest.

The key sticking points in the peace negotiations between the US and Iran have been Tehran's nuclear programme and control over the Strait of Hormuz. | World News

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