Trump and Iran Report Progress in Talks Amid Strait of Hormuz Tensions

Iran’s chief negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf stated that recent U.S. talks showed progress but significant gaps persist, particularly on nuclear activities and access to the Strait of Hormuz. He noted both sides have firm red lines, potentially limited to just one or two key issues.

President Trump described the conversations with Tehran as ‘very good,’ while cautioning against what he called blackmail over the strategic waterway. This comes amid an eighth-week war launched by the U.S. and Israel on February 28, which has caused thousands of deaths, spread to Lebanon, and effectively shut down the strait—previously handling one-fifth of global oil shipments.

Tehran reversed an earlier decision on Saturday, reasserting control over the strait in response to a U.S. blockade of its ports, labeling it a ceasefire violation. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei warned of further naval action, while Iran’s Security Council demanded fees for security and environmental services.

At least two vessels, including Indian-flagged ships, reported gunfire in the strait, prompting India to summon Iran’s ambassador. Hundreds of ships and 20,000 seafarers remain stranded, with oil prices fluctuating on reopening hopes.

Last weekend’s Islamabad talks saw the U.S. propose a 20-year Iranian nuclear halt, countered by Tehran’s 3-5 year suggestion. No new meeting date is set, though Trump hinted at a possible deal soon. He threatened renewed bombings if no long-term agreement emerges before Wednesday’s ceasefire end.

Domestic pressures mount on Trump with high U.S. gasoline prices, inflation, and midterm elections looming.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)