The United States and Iran signaled cautious progress in ongoing negotiations as tensions continue to surround the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments. Meanwhile, both sides acknowledged that several difficult issues remain unresolved, raising uncertainty as a fragile ceasefire approaches its expiration.
Speaking about the talks, Donald Trump said the United States was holding “very good conversations” with Tehran, although he offered no details about the discussions. At the same time, Iranian negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf admitted that progress had been made but emphasized that a significant gap still separates the positions of both sides.
Read more : Iran opens Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping
However, tensions escalated after Iran again asserted control over the Strait of Hormuz and closed the crucial shipping corridor, creating fresh uncertainty for global energy markets. Tehran said the move responded to an ongoing U.S. maritime blockade of Iranian ports, which it described as a violation of the ceasefire agreement.
Meanwhile, the conflict has already entered its eighth week after the United States and Israel launched military action against Iran earlier this year. The fighting has spread beyond Iran, with Israeli strikes reaching parts of Lebanon, while oil prices surged because the waterway normally carries nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil shipments.
Read more : Trump rejects Iran’s attempt to blackmail US over Hormuz
Concerns deepened further when vessels attempting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz reported gunfire attacks on Saturday, increasing fears of wider disruption. In response, India summoned Iran’s ambassador in New Delhi after two Indian-flagged ships came under fire while navigating the sensitive shipping route.
At the same time, negotiations remain stalled after high-level talks between American and Iranian officials recently took place in Islamabad. The United States reportedly proposed suspending Iran’s nuclear activity for twenty years, while Tehran suggested a shorter three-to-five-year halt as discussions toward a broader agreement continue.