Strait of Hormuz on edge: Amid US carrier showdown, Iran confirms war games with China & Russia

Iran says it has reached a “decision-making stage” on possible talks with the United States even as military tensions simmer. With U.S. naval power visible near Iranian waters, Tehran is weighing diplomacy while also confirming fresh joint drills with Russia and China. At the same time, a sharp row with the European Union over the IRGC designation is escalating, with reciprocal steps hinted at. Regional mediators are stepping in and Türkiye is emerging as a possible venue. Is this the start of serious negotiations or just diplomacy under pressure?