Iran accuses US of dual strategy: public threats, private negotiations

An Iranian lawmaker has accused the United States of publicly threatening to escalate military actions while secretly pursuing negotiations with Tehran. This claim, reported by Iran International, suggests that Washington is attempting to mislead the Iranian government. The accusation comes amidst a fragile ceasefire and ongoing indirect talks mediated by Oman, Qatar, and Pakistan, focusing on Iran’s nuclear program and sanctions relief. The situation remains tense as both diplomatic and military strategies are being employed by the U.S., reflecting a complex negotiation landscape. Key Takeaways The accusation from the Iranian lawmaker suggests that the U.S. is employing a dual strategy of public threats and private negotiations, which may indicate a challenging diplomatic environment. Markets appear to interpret this development as a potential decrease in the likelihood of a U.S.–Iran deal in 2026, as reflected in the fluctuating odds. The pricing in associated markets suggests decreased optimism for a diplomatic resolution, consistent with the Iranian lawmaker’s statement on U.S. intentions. What to Watch President Trump’s future statements and actions could further influence mar...