“Iran said no negotiations or discussions with the United States have taken place since the war began.” This statement from Iranian officials comes as the war launched by the United States and Israel against Iran enters its 24th day on March 23, 2026.
Despite these denials, former President Donald Trump has claimed that the US and Iran are having “very good and productive conversations” to resolve hostilities in the Middle East. The conflicting claims about peace talks remain unverified, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the conflict.
The situation has escalated significantly, with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) threatening retaliation if power plants are targeted. Recent attacks have resulted in civilian casualties, including one person killed in a US-Israeli strike on a transmitter in Bandar Abbas, Iran.
In a separate incident, an air attack flattened residential buildings in Urmia city, prompting rescuers to search for survivors amidst the rubble. Reports indicate that at least 1,029 people have been killed in Israeli strikes in Lebanon since March 2, according to Lebanese authorities.
In the Gulf region, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defence reported two ballistic missiles launched towards Riyadh, with one intercepted. The UAE also reported minor injuries from falling debris after intercepting a ballistic missile targeting Abu Dhabi.
Britain’s Foreign Ministry has summoned Iran’s ambassador, Seyed Ali Mousavi, criticizing Tehran’s actions as “reckless and destabilizing.” The ongoing aggression from the US and Israel against Iran, coupled with Iran’s retaliatory strikes, threatens grave consequences for regional security and the global economy, as highlighted by The Elders.
Additionally, at least 60 people have been killed in Iraq, mostly members of the pro-Iran Popular Mobilisation Forces, amidst the ongoing conflict. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the status and location of Iran’s stockpiles of highly enriched uranium.
As the conflict continues, the international community watches closely, with the potential for further escalation in the region. The situation remains fluid, and developments are expected in the coming days.