In a flicker of Middle East hope, Iran has relayed its stance on a US ceasefire proposal through Pakistan, ABC News reports. Analysts note neither side craves resumed carnage, with Tehran's measured reply keeping diplomatic channels ajar despite stalled progress.
This comes as President Trump, in a wide-ranging Full Measure interview, addressed Iran war costs, impeachment threats, and even son Barron's political prospects. Having scrapped 'Project Freedom' after Gulf ally rebuffs, Trump threatens massive bombing yet breezily predicts harmony: 'It'll all work out.' Critics scoff at the detachment.
Foreign policy hawks decry the flip-flops, from ceasefire olive branches to bombast, as erratic leadership. Domestically, it rallies the base but alienates moderates eyeing midterms. Israel's recent Beirut strikes, breaching April truces, add fuel to the fire.
As talks teeter, the world holds breath. Trump's gambler's hunch may pay off—or plunge the region deeper into chaos. For now, Iran's response buys time, but without Gulf support, US leverage thins.
