Trump announced the decision on Truth Social, citing requests from unnamed Middle Eastern nations to allow time for a comprehensive deal. The move follows a conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who emphasized the necessity of dialogue to de-escalate regional tensions. While the White House confirms the call occurred, it remains tight-lipped on specific terms. Israel, a key partner in the strategy, maintains that its commitment to preventing a nuclear-armed Iran remains absolute, with Energy Minister Eli Cohen warning that Tel Aviv will strike independently if Tehran advances its ballistic missile or nuclear programs.
Tehran’s response remains defiant, dismissing U.S. warnings as psychological warfare while simultaneously engaging in separate, advanced negotiations with Oman regarding transit routes. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei clarified that these discussions are limited to new maritime corridors and do not concern the broader status of the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, the volatility in the region continues to disrupt global energy markets. With 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passing through the now-restricted strait, Brent crude futures jumped 24% last month. As maritime incidents persist near Oman and the Bab el-Mandeb, Trump faces mounting political pressure to balance his long-term goal of total nuclear disarmament with the immediate economic fallout of surging fuel prices.
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