We have been cut off from our sources. After the authorities imposed a nationwide communications blackout, the already fragile infrastructure of reporting has all but collapsed. Even when we can make contact, we are careful; a phone search at a checkpoint could put them in danger. We cannot cross-check events through local coverage or rely on familiar verification channels. Instead, we wait for the rare, precious moments when a reliable contact inside Iran manages to get online, navigating VPNs or risking Starlink, which the authorities have criminalised.
Iran is reviewing a new U.S. proposal, with sources indicating that Washington and Tehran are nearing a one-page memorandum to end the Gulf war while deferring discussions on Iran's nuclear program.
The pulse that pushed VIX above 30 in late March has faded. President Trump paused the U.S. operation to escort commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz, citing 'Great Progress' toward an Iran agreement, while warning bombing would resume 'at a much higher level and intensity' if Tehran balks.
The White House believes it's getting close to an agreement with Iran on a one-page memorandum of understanding to end the war and set a framework for more detailed nuclear negotiations. The U.S. expects Iranian responses on several key points in the next 48 hours.
Araghchi's visit to Beijing marks the first time he has travelled to China since the US-Israeli war in Iran began on February 28. Earlier in Washington, DC, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed hope that Beijing would reiterate to Tehran the need to release its chokehold on the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran's plan was to build a conventional shield with thousands of missiles, drones, and rockets to avoid attacks while advancing their nuclear program. They no longer have that conventional shield.
A small but rollicking protest against Jeff Bezos, who co-chaired this year's Met Gala, unfolded blocks from the museum while celebrities filed into the event last night. On Sunday, a series of projections condemning Amazon lit up the billionaire's Madison Square Park luxury residence.
