US and Iranian officials continue negotiations despite President Donald Trump declaring the truce between the two nations over. The talks focus on US demands for Iran to halt attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz and ensure unrestricted shipping lanes.
Iran rejects US demands on Strait of Hormuz
Senior US officials stated on Friday that Iran must publicly commit to stopping attacks on vessels and keeping all lanes of the Strait of Hormuz open without tolls. Iran has refused to relinquish control of the strategic waterway, which handles a fifth of the world’s oil supply.
One official told reporters that Iran must issue a public statement acknowledging open shipping channels or face consequences. Iran has claimed recent attacks were carried out by an "errant part of their system."
Iran warns of "full-scale defence" if US betrays agreement
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated in a Telegram post that Tehran remains prepared for "full-scale defence" if the US violates the Memorandum of Understanding signed last month. Ghalibaf said he conveyed Iran’s "zero trust" in the US to Vice President JD Vance during recent negotiations.
"Only those prepared for war can negotiate with the U.S.," Ghalibaf wrote. "We have never ceased our preparations to defend our country. The moment the Americans betray any understanding, we are prepared for a full-scale defence."
