CNN: US, Iran consider return to pre-conflict status quo

A potential first step in a broader peace agreement between the United States and Iran could involve a return to the status quo that existed before the current escalation, CNN reports.

According to the network, although a second round of talks has not yet taken place, the positions of both sides are “not as far apart as they seem.”

Sources cited by CNN say intensive behind-the-scenes diplomacy is underway, focusing on a phased de-escalation process. One early component under discussion is the restoration of free maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz and a return to previous operational conditions before the conflict intensified.

The issue of Iran’s nuclear program is expected to be addressed in later stages of negotiations.

Mediators are pressing both sides to reach an agreement, with the coming days described as potentially critical for the diplomatic process.

By Jeyhun Aghazada