Sources tell Al Majalla that Iran was able to build a rapport with US Vice President JD Vance in Islamabad, but sensed his hands were tied in the presence of Trump's son-in-law and close friend

Both Beijing and Moscow have pragmatic reasons to help Tehran raise the cost of US action. Each sees value in offering limited but meaningful support.

The IRGC doesn't just defend the state, it runs it. To wave the white flag wouldn't just mean giving up its arms; it would mean dismantling the organisation and its patronage networks.

Moscow saw oil and gas revenue double in April and was happy to see US resources diverted away from Ukraine. But an extended war could have carried serious costs for the Kremlin.

Washington weighs the desire to avoid a protracted war with offsetting the appearance of defeat, as Tehran debates whether to consolidate gains before conditions shift or press perceived advantages

We explore how the composition and structure of the government have changed since the US assassinated Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on 28 February

Questions abound regarding the appointment, health, and role of Mojtaba Khamenei, who replaced his father on 9 March, a week after he was assassinated

Islamabad is humming with behind-the-scenes diplomacy to turn this tentative pause into lasting peace.

Security is the name of the game in Iran these days, and a small huddle of men steeped in the defence of the regime are now seen as central to decision-making in the absence of a visible cleric.

The fragile truce faces significant obstacles.