US negotiates with Iran as Israel rejects Gaza plan

The U.S. is in indirect talks with Iran, described by officials as "semi-negotiating," as the Trump administration holds off on military action and instead waits for economic pressure to force Tehran to change course. Meanwhile, Israel has formally rejected a 15-point Gaza peace plan proposed by Arab states, signaling continued hardline positions in the region. The developments come as tensions remain high following recent clashes in Lebanon and Iran’s growing influence through its proxies.

The backdrop is a year of escalating threats. Iran has stepped up uranium enrichment and attacks on shipping in the Gulf, while Israel has carried out strikes in Syria and Lebanon to curb Iranian-backed groups. The U.S. has reimposed sanctions and dispatched an aircraft carrier and bombers to the Middle East, but has so far avoided direct confrontation. The “semi-negotiating” channel—likely through intermediaries—suggests Washington is probing whether Tehran is willing to dial back its nuclear program or regional aggression without a full-scale deal. Israel’s rejection of the Gaza plan reflects its refusal to accept any arrangement that does not guarantee long-term security against Hamas and Hezbollah.

Behind the scenes, diplomats say the U.S. is divided over whether to ease sanctions to restart talks or keep pressure on until Iran blinks. Iran’s economy is struggling under sanctions, but its leaders show no sign of yielding. Israel, meanwhile, has made clear it will not accept any deal that allows Hamas to remain in power or Iran to maintain its military presence near its borders. The rejected Gaza plan called for a ceasefire, prisoner exchange, and international guarantees for reconstruction—terms Israel dismissed as unrealistic.

The next move could come from either side. Iran may push a new uranium enrichment milestone to pressure the U.S., while Israel could launch further strikes on Iranian sites in Syria or Lebanon. The U.S. might offer limited sanctions relief in exchange for de-escalation, but only if Iran signals serious intent. The stakes are high: a miscalculation could spiral into a wider regional war. For now, the world is watching to see whether economic pressure works—or if force becomes the only option left.