US-Iran duel over nuclear checks as Gulf shipping edges toward calm

The US and Iran traded contradictory statements over whether IAEA inspectors will return to monitor Iran’s nuclear program, even as hundreds of ships stranded in the Gulf edge toward evacuation under a fragile peace deal. Washington has granted a temporary sanctions waiver and signaled openness to further talks, while Tehran denies agreeing to IAEA access, underscoring ongoing tensions despite diplomatic efforts.