TRUMP SAYS HE IS HIGHLY UNLIKELY TO ORDER IRAN STRIKES IF TALKS PROGRESS

Why it matters: Qatar denied reports that the US and Iran had failed to reach a deal, and its prime minister said both sides were continuing to work toward an agreement. Iran has submitted a nuclear proposal to Washington through Qatar. Both the US and Iran have continued strikes on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, restricting exports of energy and other commodities. The Revolutionary Guards Navy said two oil tankers caught fire after hitting mines, and a third tanker suffered an explosion and caught fire. The US said its air force disabled a commercial vessel in the Gulf of Oman.

Trump signals de-escalation with Iran contingent on diplomatic progress.

Trump signals de-escalation with Iran contingent on diplomatic progress. — impact context not separately stored; see What changed.