US President Donald Trump has made a dramatic turnaround in his stance on Iran, claiming Tehran is 'begging' for a deal, just three days after he spoke of a possible truce and 'productive' talks to end the conflict. Trump's latest comments come as reports suggest US-Iran indirect talks are taking place, facilitated by Pakistan.
The US has shared a 15-point ceasefire proposal with Iran, which includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has its own five-point proposal, which includes sovereignty over the strait. However, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has downplayed the talks, saying they are not a conversation or negotiation.
As the war rages on, the US is sending troops to the region for possible deployment on the ground. The US Navy has hit over 10,000 targets since the war began, destroying 92% of Iran's largest ships and more than two-thirds of the country's missile, drone, and naval production facilities.
Oil prices have skyrocketed, with Brent crude trading at $104 early Thursday, up over 40% from the day the war started. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has described the war as a 'catastrophe for the world's economies.'
