Day 26 of Middle East conflict — Tehran says it does not accept 15-point plan by the US | CNN

• Follow the latest updates on the war with Iran here. • State of possible talks: The White House said talks with Iran are proceeding apace, even after Tehran did not immediately accept a 15-point plan to end the war. The US is working to arrange a meeting in Pakistan to discuss an off-ramp, two administration officials tell CNN. • Iran’s response: Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi acknowledged that messages have been exchanged with the US through mediators, but said that Washington’s shift in tone amounted to an acknowledgment of failure after previously demanding Tehran’s “unconditional surrender.” • Protecting key island: Iran has been laying traps and moving military personnel and air defenses to Kharg Island in preparation for a possible US operation to take control of the island, according to people familiar with US intelligence reporting. South Korea confirmed it has been granted permission to import certain Russian energy products under the US’ relaxing of sanctions, following some conditions, as the global fuel crisis grows. “The US previously announced a temporary relaxation concerning Russian crude oil and petroleum product sanctions,” said Yang Gi-