US and Iran Make 'Significant Progress' in Nuclear Talks as Strait of Hormuz Closes

Iran announced the temporary closure of the Strait of Hormuz for live fire drills during indirect talks with the US.

“The United States and Israel have launched strikes on Iran despite ongoing talks between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear programme”

Al Jazeera

It was the first time Iran has announced closure of the waterway through which 20% of the world's oil passes.

Al Jazeera

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi expressed optimism, saying a new window has opened.

The US and Iran held their third round of talks in Geneva.

The discussions led to understandings on some issues and left gaps on others.

AP News

Both sides planned technical-level discussions in Vienna and a fourth round.

Iran's latest proposal offered more concessions and flexibility than previous rounds.

“In short: The US will hold a third round of nuclear talks with Iran in Geneva, amid concerns over the risk of conflict between the long-time adversaries”

Australian Broadcasting Corporation

The Omani mediator said both Washington and Tehran were showing flexibility.

Iran insisted on sanctions relief and the right to peaceful nuclear enrichment.

The US and Israel launched strikes on Iran after Trump ordered attacks.

The strikes came just two days after talks ended without a breakthrough.

BBC

The gulf between diplomacy and military action remained perilously narrow.