Iran sets seven conditions for US amid war of words over negotiations

Iran rejected President Trump's claims of progress toward ending the war, demanding the US accept seven conditions. Tehran's National Security Council chief Mohsen Rezaei accused Washington of spreading "false news" about negotiations that are not occurring. Rezaei called the US government a "desperate gambler" and demanded Washington "surrender" to Iran's terms, including lifting sanctions, releasing frozen assets, paying war reparations, and ending the blockade. Iran stated it will not restore navigation in the Strait of Hormuz or begin substantive talks until its demands are met. The remarks followed Trump's statements about "positive momentum" after talks with Qatar's prime minister. No agreement has been announced for direct US-Iran negotiations, despite mediation efforts by Qatar and other regional actors.