US, Iran Talk Peace Amid Renewed Efforts to End Seven-Month War

The US and Iran have engaged in separate talks with mediators as part of a renewed effort to end the seven-month-old war. The latest round of negotiations comes after Iran presented a seven-day proposal last week, which envisages an end to all hostilities in Iran and Lebanon, the unfreezing of billions of dollars' worth of Iranian assets, an end to sanctions on Iranian oil, and the lifting of the US blockade on Iranian ports.

The proposal, which was presented on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, also includes the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital conduit for oil tankers. Iran would allow the reopening in exchange for meeting certain conditions, including the unfreezing of assets and the lifting of sanctions.

US President Donald Trump told reporters at the White House that US officials had spoken with mediators on Monday, but he did not provide further details. However, he has flagged further talks this week.