Good morning from Abu Dhabi. Iran is setting the groundwork for potential crucial talks with the US concerning its nuclear programme and its regional role.
Sources told The National that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ Quds Force commander Esmail Qaani visited Iraq last week to help maintain the unofficial truce between militant groups and the US after Gaza’s ceasefire fell apart.
While Iran has said it will not negotiate directly, it has acknowledged that US President Donald Trump’s approach presents opportunities and is reportedly considering engaging. Maintaining the status quo remains Iran's goal, at least for now, to ensure no regional conflicts overshadow its broader strategy.
Read our exclusive story here.
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