What exactly is going on with peace talks now?

Key Points:

• U.S. officials and Iranian leaders have made conflicting claims about peace negotiations, with Iran denying U.S. assertions that a deal is near, prolonging the conflict that began nearly six weeks ago.
• Iran's Revolutionary Guard remains confident and unpressured due to their survival of U.S.-Israeli bombings and the population's limited influence, while President Trump has shown inconsistent military and diplomatic strategies, including threats and aborted operations.
• China plays a nuanced role by encouraging negotiations and supporting Iran's sovereignty, yet also expressing concern for stability in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil passage.
• Trump insists on a complete ban on Iran’s uranium enrichment, rejecting Iran’s offers for limited enrichment under international inspection, partly due to political concerns about appearing soft compared to former President Obama’s nuclear deal.
• A proposed 14-point U.S. peace plan, reportedly similar to Obama’s Iran deal, including limits on uranium enrichment and lifting sanctions, faces skepticism from Iran and uncertainty about Trump’s approval and capacity to negotiate such a complex agreement.