According to CNN, U.S. President Donald Trump held a phone conference on Saturday, May 23, with leaders from Gulf countries and a number of regional officials to review the latest proposal put forward by the Islamic Republic aimed at ending the war. The consultations come as mediators, following the conclusion of their meetings in Tehran, reported progress toward an initial framework for a potential agreement, a development that could mark a new phase in regional diplomacy. A regional source told CNN that senior officials from Gulf states, Pakistan, Turkey and Egypt participated in the call. At the same time, U.S. Vice President JD Vance was seen at the White House, while Trump said he planned to hold discussions with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Separately, an Israeli source told CNN that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to chair a limited security meeting on Saturday night involving several ministers and defence officials. According to the source, the meeting will focus on developments related to the Tehran-Washington negotiations, from which Israeli officials reportedly believe Tel Aviv has been excluded. The parallel diplomatic activity involving Washington, Tehran and regional actors comes amid reports of intensified efforts to reach an agreement and prevent further escalation of the crisis.
