Iran on Sunday reportedly denied engaging in direct discussions with the United States regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. This comes amid U.S. assertions that a deal is nearing completion.
Iranian FM Denies Reports Of Direct Negotiations With US On Strait Of Hormuz
According to a report by CNBC, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi clarified that Tehran is not directly negotiating with the U.S. to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, despite Washington’s claims of an impending agreement.
Following a brief cessation of hostilities after a June 17 memorandum, Iran has resumed drone and missile attacks on vessels in the strait, leading to U.S. retaliatory strikes on Iranian targets.
Araghchi mentioned that while direct talks are absent, intermediaries are facilitating message exchanges, according to the Mehr news agency.
US Will Have To Fulfill Iran’s Conditions, Says Araghchi
Araghchi stressed that any potential agreement involving Oman on a trade route through the strait would still require the U.S. to fulfill Iran’s conditions for reopening.
Oman has been instrumental in discussions concerning the strait, a critical passage for global energy supplies.
President Donald Trump noted in an Axios interview on Sunday that negotiations with Iran are being conducted discreetly, while U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that an agreement could be imminent.
Iran has set forth extensive demands for reopening the strait, including the lifting of sanctions and the withdrawal of U.S. forces.
Iran Outlines Conditions For Reopening Strait Of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point in U.S.-Iran relations. Recently, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council outlined Tehran’s conditions for reopening the strait, emphasizing the ongoing mediation by Oman.
Despite President Trump’s claims of progress, California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized these assertions, pointing to recent incidents in the region.
Experts warn that Trump faces limited options to resolve the ongoing conflict, with Iran’s demands including the end of the blockade and reparations. The situation remains tense, with the potential for renewed hostilities looming.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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