US signals progress in Iran talks to avert flare-up

US President Donald Trump signaled progress on Tuesday in talks with Iran to avoid a return to war , as Tehran reported “intensive” exchanges while offering to reopen the Strait of Hormuz under strict conditions. The fresh diplomatic signals came ahead of US midterm elections on Tuesday, in which Trump’s Republican Party is pushing to retain control of Congress, faced with voter dissatisfaction over the conflict and the soaring fuel prices it has triggered. A deal with Tehran “could happen,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. “Iran wants a settlement, as soon as possible.” But hours…