Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister stated Wednesday that the United States demonstrated willingness to honor prior agreements, though he stopped short of providing specifics. The official simultaneously contradicted assertions from President Trump by insisting that no active negotiations between Tehran and Washington are occurring at present.
The comments come after Trump suggested earlier this week that discussions were underway regardless of Iran’s public denials. The two nations previously signed a memorandum of understanding on June 17 that would allow commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz without fees for a 60-day period. In exchange, the U.S. agreed to remove its naval embargo on Iranian vessels.
Iran’s foreign ministry indicated separately that a bilateral statement with Oman addressing the Strait of Hormuz situation was nearing completion. Reports suggested the U.S., Iran, and Oman were approaching a preliminary accord to reopen the critical waterway, with initial timelines pointing to this week for a possible announcement. Treasury officials expressed similar optimism about reaching an agreement during this period.
The maritime tensions have persisted in the region, with reports of explosions near tankers off Yemen and Oman emerging Thursday. U.S. Central Command maintained that the southern shipping route through the strait continues to remain accessible for all commercial traffic.
About the Author
