What's happened
Following a 12-day war in June 2025 sparked by Israeli strikes on Iran's nuclear sites, nuclear negotiations between Iran and the US remain stalled. Iran demands guarantees against further military attacks before resuming talks, while the US signals willingness to engage diplomatically. Both sides dispute the extent of damage from recent strikes, complicating prospects for renewed diplomacy.
What's behind the headline?
The Fragility of Diplomacy Amid Conflict
The recent 12-day war between Israel and Iran, compounded by US military involvement, has severely undermined the fragile diplomatic efforts to resolve Iran's nuclear ambitions. Despite US President Donald Trump's assertions of having "obliterated" Iran's nuclear sites, intelligence leaks and Iranian officials suggest the damage is less definitive, with Iran poised to resume uranium enrichment swiftly.
Mutual Distrust and Political Posturing
Iran's demand for guarantees against further military attacks before reengaging in talks reflects deep mistrust, fueled by Israel's surprise strikes and US participation. Iranian leaders, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and President Masoud Pezeshkian, emphasize readiness for renewed conflict, while simultaneously expressing cautious openness to diplomacy under strict conditions.
Strategic Messaging and Regional Power Dynamics
Israeli officials, notably opposition leader Avigdor Liberman, advocate for preemptive strikes and regime change in Iran, underscoring Israel's security concerns. Meanwhile, US officials maintain a zero-enrichment stance, complicating negotiations. The interplay between Israeli military actions, US diplomatic positioning, and Iranian resilience shapes a volatile regional security environment.
Prospects for Peace and Continued Conflict
The ceasefire remains tenuous, with both sides preparing for potential renewed hostilities. Nuclear talks face significant hurdles due to unresolved issues over uranium enrichment, verification, and sanctions. The involvement of European powers and the International Atomic Energy Agency adds complexity but also potential avenues for dialogue.
Impact on Global Security
This conflict and stalled diplomacy heighten risks of broader regional instability and nuclear proliferation. The international community's ability to broker a durable agreement hinges on rebuilding trust, ensuring verifiable commitments, and balancing deterrence with engagement. Without progress, the cycle of conflict and retaliation is likely to persist, affecting global security and energy markets.
What the papers say
Al Jazeera provides detailed insights from Iranian officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian's exclusive interview expressing skepticism about the ceasefire's durability and readiness for renewed conflict. The New Arab highlights Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi's warnings about the "fragile" ceasefire and the need for US guarantees before resuming talks. The Times of Israel offers perspectives from Israeli opposition leader Avigdor Liberman, who stresses Iran's obsession with revenge and advocates for preemptive strikes, reflecting Israel's security concerns. South China Morning Post and The Independent discuss the stalled nuclear negotiations, with Iranian officials denying imminent talks despite US overtures. Contrasting views emerge on the effectiveness of US and Israeli strikes, with Trump claiming total destruction of nuclear sites, while leaked intelligence and Iranian sources suggest the damage is less severe. These diverse accounts illustrate the complex interplay of military action, diplomacy, and political messaging shaping the current impasse.
How we got here
In June 2025, Israel launched surprise strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites, triggering a 12-day conflict involving US strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities. The war ended with a US-brokered ceasefire on June 24. Prior to the conflict, Iran and the US were engaged in nuclear negotiations, which have since stalled amid mutual distrust and ongoing regional tensions.
Go deeper
- What are the prospects for renewed nuclear talks between Iran and the US?
- How effective were the Israeli and US strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities?
- What are the risks of the ceasefire between Iran and Israel breaking down?
Common question
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What are the latest developments in the Israel-Iran conflict?
The ongoing tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated recently, with significant military actions and diplomatic standoffs. Understanding the latest developments is crucial for grasping the broader implications for regional stability and international relations. Below are some common questions that arise from this complex situation.
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What is the Current Status of Iran's Nuclear Talks?
As tensions rise between Iran and the U.S., particularly following recent military actions, many are left wondering about the future of nuclear negotiations. With the G7 calling for a ceasefire and renewed discussions, what does this mean for Iran's nuclear program? Here are some common questions and answers regarding the current situation.
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Why Are the Iran-U.S. Nuclear Talks Stalled?
The ongoing nuclear negotiations between Iran and the U.S. have hit a significant roadblock following recent military conflicts. Understanding the reasons behind this stalemate is crucial for grasping the future of diplomatic relations between these two nations. Below, we explore key questions surrounding the current situation and what it means for international diplomacy.
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Why is Iran denying US talks now?
Recent tensions between Iran and the US have led to conflicting statements about negotiations. While some officials suggest Iran is open to talks, others deny any requests for negotiations. Understanding the current diplomatic stance requires examining recent events, military actions, and political narratives from both sides. Curious about what’s really happening and what might come next? Here are some key questions and answers to clarify the situation.
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Why Are Iran and the US Unable to Restart Nuclear Talks?
The diplomatic deadlock between Iran and the US has intensified following recent military strikes and ongoing conflicts. Many wonder why negotiations have stalled and what factors are preventing a breakthrough. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this complex situation, including recent conflicts, Iran's demands, and the impact on future diplomacy.
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Why Are Iran and the US Not Restarting Nuclear Talks?
The recent escalation in Iran-US relations has left many wondering why diplomatic negotiations have stalled. After a significant military conflict in June 2025, both sides remain at an impasse, with Iran demanding security guarantees before resuming talks. Here, we explore the key reasons behind the diplomatic deadlock and what it means for regional stability.
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Why are Iran and the US not talking after the war?
The recent conflict between Iran and Israel, along with US involvement, has significantly impacted diplomatic relations. With tensions running high and mutual distrust deepening, both sides are hesitant to engage in talks. Many wonder what the key obstacles are and whether diplomacy can still be revived. Below, we explore the reasons behind the current standstill and what might influence future negotiations.
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Why Have Iran-US Nuclear Talks Stalled After Recent Conflict?
The recent escalation in Iran-US relations has raised many questions about the future of diplomacy in the region. Following a 12-day war sparked by Israeli strikes on Iran's nuclear sites, negotiations between Iran and the US remain at a standstill. Many wonder what caused this deadlock, how the recent conflict impacts diplomatic efforts, and what each side's demands are moving forward. Below, we explore the key issues shaping this tense situation and answer the most pressing questions.
More on these topics
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Iran, also called Persia, and officially the Islamic Republic of Iran, is a country in Western Asia. It is bordered to the northwest by Armenia and Azerbaijan, to the north by the Caspian Sea, to the northeast by Turkmenistan, to the east by Afghanistan a
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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Abbas Araghchi is an Iranian diplomat who is currently the political deputy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Iran. He previously held office as the Deputy for Asia–Pacific and the Commonwealth Affairs and Legal and International Affairs of the Mini
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Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
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Masoud Pezeshkian is an Iranian heart surgeon and reformist politician of Azerbaijani and Kurdish descent who is currently President-elect of Iran.
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