The third round of Iran-US nuclear negotiations concluded in Muscat, with delegations returning to capitals for consultations. Iranian spokesperson emphasized sanctions removal as the primary focus, explicitly denying discussions about defense capabilities or uranium removal. Foreign Minister Araghchi described talks as "serious" but noted persistent differences, with a fourth round scheduled for next Saturday.
A devastating explosion at Shahid Rajaei Port in Bandar Abbas dominated afternoon coverage. The blast progressively worsened throughout the day, with casualty reports rising from dozens to over 750 injured and 14 dead by evening. Fire spread to additional containers as emergency responders from eight provinces mobilized. Officials requested blood donations while schools in Bandar Abbas announced closures for the following day. Israeli sources denied involvement in the explosion, which occurred amid crucial trade negotiations and Pope Francis's funeral in Rome that Iranian officials attended.
