Struck but not toppled: Iran braces for high-stakes talks to end the war

After U.S.-led strikes failed to topple Iran’s leaders, Tehran is entering high-stakes talks with the United States over a comprehensive agreement to end the war. Iran maintains its program is peaceful but demands concessions, while Washington seeks major guarantees to prevent weaponization. Internal divisions persist, but former Tehran mayor Qalibaf is seen as a potential bridge-builder to unite factions as sanctions bite and Iran leverages Strait of Hormuz to press its case.