The story: While Iran and the United States have both rejected reports of an impending prisoner swap, several indicators suggest that such talks are indeed underway. If true, a swap could have a positive impact on bilateral ties as both sides seek to revive the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Moreover, perhaps surprisingly, Iranian hardliners are seemingly in support of a prisoner exchange, indicating that the whole establishment may be behind it.

The coverage: Beirut-based Al-Mayadeen reported on May 2 that Iran and the US have reached an agreement over an exchange of prisoners...