Iran and US negotiate nuclear concessions for peace talks

Iran and the United States are negotiating over potential concessions on Iran's nuclear program in exchange for reviving peace talks, according to mediators cited by The Wall Street Journal on Sunday. A high-level Middle East official said Iran was close to a compromise earlier this year during talks with Vice President JD Vance. Iran would require explicit assurance that Israel would not attack it after any deal, while other officials said Tehran believes it could withstand a long-term US blockade or renewed bombing. Arab mediators reported Iran has made no concessions since President Donald Trump rejected a recent ceasefire offer, with Tehran demanding US concessions first. Researcher Umer Karim noted Iran believes Trump and Republicans may lose the midterm elections, potentially increasing US willingness to use force. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz within seven days, but Trump rejected the offer on Saturday, saying Iran is "losing so badly."