U.S. plans new Iran talks as tensions rise over Hormuz
In a social media post, Trump did not specify which officials would attend the negotiations, expected to follow an initial round led by Vice President JD Vance. The White House has not commented on the planned visit.
Trump also accused Iran of violating a cease-fire by firing on vessels in the strait and warned of severe consequences if Tehran rejects a U.S. proposal. He said Washington had offered a “reasonable deal,” but threatened to target Iranian infrastructure if no agreement is reached.
Iran has not responded to the latest remarks. However, earlier statements from Tehran reaffirmed its intention to restrict passage through the Strait of Hormuz as long as a U.S. blockade on Iranian ports remains in place.
Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said it was unacceptable for other countries to use the waterway while Iran remained under sanctions, calling the U.S. blockade “naive.” Despite this, he said Iran remains committed to diplomacy, though significant differences persist.
The standoff has complicated Pakistani-led mediation efforts to extend a two-week cease-fire due to expire Wednesday. Preparations are underway in Islamabad for renewed talks, with security tightened and advance teams reportedly already in place.
Shipping in the Persian Gulf has slowed after recent incidents, including attacks on two India-flagged vessels that forced them to turn back. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for about one-fifth of global oil trade, remains largely at a standstill, raising concerns about energy markets and regional stability.
Iran views control of the strait as a key source of leverage, while the U.S. blockade continues to pressure its economy. Although the cease-fire has largely held, the maritime standoff risks reigniting a broader conflict that has already caused thousands of casualties across the region.
Iranian officials said new proposals from the United States are under review, but reiterated that certain demands — including relinquishing enriched uranium stockpiles — remain unacceptable.
Source-Photo: DailySabah
