Iran hits out at ‘excessive’ US demands amid peace talks

The Independent

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• Iran has criticized what it calls "excessive" US peace demands ahead of a second round of talks in Islamabad, Pakistan, aimed at extending a fragile ceasefire.
• The current negotiations are considered a "last opportunity" to establish a common framework following six weeks of bloody conflict.
• The US delegation is led by vice president JD Vance, while Iran's team is headed by parliamentary speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf.
• The Strait of Hormuz remains a crucial point of contention, with a Pakistan source reporting "mood swings" during the initial two-hour meeting.
• International figures, including French President Emmanuel Macron and Pope Leo, have called for de-escalation and respect for the ceasefire, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz and Lebanon.