Vance proposes restarting peace talks in letter to Iranian official

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Vance proposes immediate resumption of comprehensive US-Iran talks as Trump denies talks

US Vice President Vance wrote to an Iranian official proposing an immediate restart of comprehensive talks, including on Iran's nuclear program. Separately, Iranian foreign minister Araghchi said Iran is in close contact with mediators on implementing its seven-day plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while Trump denied that peace talks are under way. Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey took a diplomatic push to Tehran on Wednesday, and Gulf-backed talks are working on a multipart deal.

• Gulf-backed talks aim to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within four days of sanctions being lifted and to have the Houthis withdraw substantial forces inside Yemen; the US wants a concession, possibly allowing UN weapons inspectors back into Iran.
• Iran said on Tuesday the US is not serious about talks, and UKMTO reported a ship on fire off the coast of Iraq.
• Iran says it is preparing for a possible US and Israeli attack after the US midterms.
• Reports say Netanyahu pressed for action against Iran ahead of the Israeli election; Israel's defence minister denied a rift with the army.