US and Iran Pursue Separate Talks to End Seven-Month War

The US and Iran have been negotiating separate talks with mediators in an effort to end seven months of war, according to officials from both countries.

The renewed effort comes after a proposal by Iran for a ceasefire was presented last week at the United Nations General Assembly. The proposal, which has been amended, includes an end to hostilities in Iran and Lebanon, the unfreezing of billions of dollars' worth of Iranian assets, and the lifting of US sanctions on Iranian oil.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that his country expected a response from the US regarding its ceasefire proposal. He emphasized that any move towards reopening the Strait of Hormuz would be contingent on Iran's conditions being met.

The war began in late February with US and Israeli attacks on Iran, resulting in thousands of deaths over seven months and causing global market shockwaves as vital waterways for oil remained choked.