Trump admin secretly contacted IRGC via Kurdish leader, report reveals

A report from the Jerusalem Post reveals that the Trump administration engaged in secret communications with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) through Kurdish leader President Barzani of Iraq’s Kurdistan Region. This development suggests possible negotiations aimed at improving diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Iran. Such behind-the-scenes interactions could potentially influence ongoing discussions about a U.S.-Iran deal, particularly concerning Iran’s nuclear program and regional activities. Notably, this news coincides with fluctuating activity related to the likelihood of a U.S.-Iran deal being finalized in 2026. The prediction market for a U.S.-Iran deal in 2026, specifically concerning Iran Reconstruction Funding, has seen increased optimism. Current pricing stands at 33% for a YES outcome, up from 22% just 24 hours prior. This rise suggests that market participants view the reported secret communications as a potential step toward a diplomatic agreement. The market for other related deal components, such as uranium enrichment caps and moratoriums, shows varied support. For instance, the probability of a 1+ year uranium enrichment cap being included in a...