US-Iran war talks gain momentum as domestic pressures mount

Diplomatic efforts to end the US-Israel war on Iran have accelerated, with President Donald Trump calling the conflict "effectively" at an end after positive talks with Qatar's Prime Minister on Monday, though both sides maintain military readiness. The Republican defeat in the US midterm elections has raised political costs for continued escalation, prompting Democratic leaders to pledge ending the war, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces an uncertain political future and Qatar intensifies mediation efforts. Oil prices fell on renewed peace hopes. Iran demands the removal of the naval blockade and unfreezing of assets as conditions for talks, but analysts warn a breakthrough remains elusive, with potential scenarios including a symbolic strike on nuclear facilities or sustained blockade that could trigger significant Iranian escalation against US forces.