Updated

Diplomacy between Washington and Tehran remains stalled, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President Vance saying Iran has squandered chances for a deal and must cut enrichment, while Iranian officials including Araghchi and Foreign Ministry spokesperson Baqaei insist Iran remains firm on self-defense and accuse the US of breaching prior commitments and using 'false flags' to justify war. Iran has reportedly received US feedback on a seven-day trust-building plan and an official US response to its latest offer, but both sides continue trading accusations, with Iranian officials like Ghalibaf and IRGC commanders warning of economic and military retaliation against US pressure. Analysts and Iranian officials increasingly warn that the gap between negotiation and renewed war is narrowing, with rhetoric hardening on both sides. Protests against US policy also broke out in Athens during Rubio's visit, while commentary continues over China's alleged role arming Iran's nuclear ambitions, reflecting the broader international dimension of the stalemate.