Iran freezes US talks after Trump's midterm defeat

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Sunday that diplomatic talks with the US have been frozen due to the "shock" from the Republican defeat in the US midterm elections, as efforts to end the Middle East war remain stalled. Araghchi told state TV that no new mediator visits have occurred and time is needed to restore a suitable climate for resuming contacts. He also issued a warning to Washington regarding the Strait of Hormuz, urging the White House to choose between a deal or continued war. Tehran's proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within two days remains on the table, conditional on a ceasefire, sanctions relief, and an end to the naval blockade. Qatar's prime minister said Friday the US still seeks a diplomatic solution.