US and Iran inch closer to peace deal as Trump faces criticism from GOP hawks | First Thing

US president says he is not rushing into a deal after proposed plan to end war prompts Republican backlash. Plus, mood in Russia turns against Putin

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Good morning.

Donald Trump defended himself against criticism from fellow Republicans yesterday as he appeared on the verge of agreeing a deal with Iran to end the war.

What has Iran said? Foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei has been speaking at a news briefing about the contours of a potential deal with the US to end the war: It is correct to say that we have reached a conclusion on a large portion of the issues under discussion. But to say that this means the signing of an agreement is imminent - no one can make such a claim."

Why does he think voters are becoming disenfranchised? Massie pointed to several significant constituencies - including Make America healthy again" campaigners, fiscal hawks pushing for sweeping government budget cuts, and voters who don't want the US engaged in wars - who he claimed had been alienated" by the administration's actions. And so, I'm worried that in November, this is going to cost the party a lot."