US and Iran nearing deal to end conflict, reports suggest

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has stated that a memorandum of understanding with the United States to end the war is "never been closer," while urging an end to media speculation pending finalization.

US President Donald Trump reposted the Iranian minister's statement on his Truth Social platform, after initially criticizing Iran for alleged leaks to state media about the deal's details, labeling them "fake news."

Reports in US media suggest that aircraft are flying to Geneva to prepare a site for the Vice President's potential participation in the signing of the MoU. While unconfirmed, this speculation is reportedly fueled by the administration, which is keen to highlight the prospects of an imminent deal.

There appears to be an agreement on a phased process, beginning with the signing of a memorandum of agreement, followed by a defined period for negotiating more contentious issues. However, Lebanon's inclusion in the MoU remains a critical sticking point, with President Trump asserting it will not be part of the agreement, a position that Iran disputes.

Switzerland has offered to host the potential signing of the MoU between Tehran and Washington, should the parties agree to it. Meanwhile, Pakistan's Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has discussed ongoing efforts to end the conflict with his Egyptian counterpart, expressing hope for a constructive outcome.

In a separate development, Israel has ordered residents of 20 Lebanese towns and villages to evacuate their homes, moving north of the Zahrani River, following renewed military activity in south Lebanon. This comes despite assurances from the Iranian side that Lebanon would be included in any ceasefire.

Additionally, four activists from Palestine Action have been jailed by a British court on "terror" charges related to a protest raid on an Israeli arms firm in the UK. Palestinian officials also reported that several Palestinians suffered from tear gas inhalation during an Israeli military raid on the Dheisheh refugee camp south of Bethlehem, and a Palestinian municipality worker was killed in an Israeli drone attack in central Gaza.