Tehran launched attacks on several Iraqi oil production sites to retaliate for U.S. military strikes on Qeshm Island, sources said. The escalation occurs as the two superpowers attempt to navigate a peace framework via third-party mediation, though reporting indicates that the nuclear issue is not currently being discussed.
The recent hostilities were a focal point of a secret visit by Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi to Tehran last Friday. During an eight hour meeting with senior Iranian officials, al-Zaidi attempted to convey peace terms that Donald Trump had already approved. However, Iranian officials including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that the U.S. must lift its blockade and recognize Iran’s sovereign rights before negotiations to end the war can advance.
