Iran and the United States are continuing mediated talks aimed at ending the ongoing conflict, with Iranian media reporting that both sides are exchanging messages and draft proposals to establish a formal framework for an agreement. Al Jazeera's correspondent Almigdad Alruhaid reported from Tehran that Pakistani officials were engaged in "intense mediation activity" between the two countries.

The diplomatic push comes as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated "some good signs" for a possible breakthrough. However, US President Donald Trump also issued a warning that Washington could take "very drastic" action if Iran refuses to relinquish its uranium stockpiles.

Iranian officials have accused the US and Israel of committing a "war crime" by bombing the Pasteur Institute of Iran early in the war. The Lancet journal previously warned that this attack severely damaged a key pillar of the country's public health system. Separately, the Iranian Red Crescent reported that its aid workers rescued over 7,200 people trapped beneath rubble during US and Israeli attacks, sharing footage of survivors being pulled from destroyed buildings.

Doug Bandow, a senior fellow at the Cato Institute, suggested that for negotiations to progress, the US and Iran will need to move beyond their conflicting "red lines" concerning Tehran's nuclear program. He stated that both sides must demonstrate a willingness to compromise and engage in serious talks to avert further escalation and a prolonged war.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged "some progress" in the negotiations with Iran, but cautioned that it remains uncertain whether a deal can be finalized in the immediate future. Rubio reiterated that President Trump favors a diplomatic resolution but also noted that Washington possesses "other options" should talks falter.

Senior Pakistani officials are actively involved in "intense mediation activity" in Tehran, according to Al Jazeera's Alruhaid, as efforts intensify to de-escalate the situation. While one senior Iranian official expressed optimism, suggesting negotiators were nearing a deal and working on draft texts, another source advised caution, stating it was too early to determine if a final agreement was within reach.

In the United States, CENTCOM confirmed that the USS Abraham Lincoln strike group remains at "peak readiness" in the Arabian Sea. Images of warplanes taking off were shared, indicating Washington's continued posture of pressure on Iran amidst the ongoing mediation. Reports also suggest that Iran has destroyed more than two dozen MQ-9 Reaper drones.

The ongoing situation highlights the delicate balance between diplomatic efforts and military posturing. The success of the current mediation hinges on the willingness of both Tehran and Washington to make concessions on critical issues, particularly Iran's nuclear program, while the broader implications of continued hostilities remain a significant concern.