Iran Accuses US of Violating Ceasefire Agreement; Trump to Convene Cabinet Meeting Focused on Iran Situation
On Tuesday, May 26, Iran accused the United States of conducting nighttime airstrikes in southern Iran, violating the ceasefire agreement. This came as recent signs of easing in the prolonged ceasefire negotiations in the Middle East were once again derailed, while ongoing blockades in the Strait of Hormuz have triggered a surge in international oil prices. According to The New York Post, President Trump is scheduled to hold a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, with the Iran issue expected to be the central topic.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry stated on Tuesday: "Since the ceasefire, U.S. military forces have continued illegal and unjustified actions... In the past 48 hours, they have openly violated the ceasefire agreement in the Hormozgan Province region." The statement did not provide specific details about the incidents. Iran also warned: "We will not remain indifferent to any malicious actions."
Previously, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that American forces had conducted nighttime strikes on missile launch facilities in southern Iran. Iran has not officially confirmed the attacks, but state-run media reported explosions heard in the port city of Bandar Abbas, with authorities investigating the cause. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed it shot down a U.S. drone and opened fire on other aircraft attempting to enter Iranian airspace, though no timing was specified for the incident.
Despite escalating rhetoric from both sides, diplomatic efforts continue.
On Monday, senior Iranian officials—including chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Araghchi—visited Doha, the capital of Qatar, marking the first high-level visit by Iran since the outbreak of conflict. The head of Iran's central bank also accompanied the delegation to discuss issues related to overseas assets frozen due to U.S. sanctions. Tasnim News Agency reported that Tehran is demanding the unfreezing of $24 billion in assets.
Iran Says Willingness to End War on Basis of "Mutual Respect"
Although Tehran reiterated that an agreement would not be reached immediately, U.S. Secretary of State Rubio said on Tuesday that an agreement remains possible, with all parties currently engaged in discussions over the precise wording of a "draft text."
According to Iran’s National Radio and Television network (IRIB), Iranian President Pezeshkian spoke by phone with Qatari leaders on Tuesday, stating that Iran "is ready to end the war under a framework of mutual respect."
Trump to Hold Cabinet Meeting; Iran Issue to Be Core Agenda
According to another report by The New York Post, as negotiations between the U.S. and Iran on ending the Middle East conflict approach a critical juncture, a White House official said President Trump is expected to convene an unusual cabinet meeting on Wednesday at his presidential retreat, Camp David. The Iran issue is anticipated to be the focal point of the meeting, with all cabinet members expected to attend; domestic economic and social concerns are also included on the agenda.
On the 23rd, Trump stated that Washington and Tehran are "close" to reaching an agreement to end the Middle East conflict, though talks remain tense. He warned that a renewed U.S. airstrike campaign against Iran could be imminent.
Source: rfi
Original: toutiao.com/article/1866305373731848/
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