Reports say there had been multiple attempts by crew members onboard USS Abraham Lincoln to jump overboard. Pressure is mounting on Trump with despair growing amid the Iran war. Tune into Gravitas at 9 PM to find out more.

US Military Meltdown in Gulf Signals End of Trump Era | GRAVITAS

A senior Iranian official on Thursday (August 13) said the Strait of Hormuz remains under the control of Iran, rejecting US President Donald Trump's claim that Washington has taken control of the strategic waterway. Hossein Taeb, head of Iran's paramilitary Basij forces affiliated with the Revolutionary Guards, said the waterway remains under Tehran's management and control.&nbsp;"Today, you see that the Strait of Hormuz is under the management and control of the Islamic Republic, and our country continues on its path in complete security," Taeb said, according to Iranian state television.&nbsp;His remarks came a day after Trump claimed that the United States had "total control" over the Strait of Hormuz and said he intended to maintain that control as negotiations with Iran over reopening the waterway remained stalled.&nbsp;In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, "The U.S.A. has total control over the Strait of Hormuz. I THINK WE WILL KEEP IT! Our Naval Blockade is being called, by everyone, 'A WALL OF STEEL,' and there is nothing Iran can do about it."&nbsp;Trump also claimed that Iran's military infrastructure had suffered severe damage. He ended the message with the phrase, "Praise be to Allah!"&nbsp;"All they have is FAKE NEWS and 300% INFLATION, and getting worse! Iran is all talk and no action, the Bully of the Middle East No Longer. Praise be to Allah! President," he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-japan-tensions-flare-putin-visits-disputed-islands-tokyo-summons-envoy-1786617952382">Russia-Japan tensions flare: Putin visits disputed islands, Tokyo protests, summons Russian envoy</a><h3>Iran and US clash over Strait of Hormuz</h3>Trump has repeatedly claimed that Washington controls the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for energy and other commodity shipments through the Middle East.&nbsp;Iran, however, has maintained that it effectively controls a large part of the waterway. Tehran also plans to impose a toll system in response to the US war launched by Trump on February 28.&nbsp;The dispute comes as Washington and Tehran continue behind-the-scenes diplomatic engagement. Representatives from both sides have held indirect discussions on measures to ease the Hormuz crisis and restore regular maritime traffic.&nbsp;Tehran has reportedly demanded compensation for war-related damage linked to the US-Israel. It has also sought compensation for economic losses caused by sanctions. Trump has publicly rejected the demand.<h3>Diplomatic efforts continue amid rising pressure</h3>At the same time, the Trump administration has increased economic pressure on Tehran by enforcing existing sanctions. Washington has also warned that further punitive measures could follow if Iran refuses to comply.&nbsp;The competing claims over control of the Strait of Hormuz come as both sides continue indirect discussions aimed at easing the crisis and restoring regular maritime traffic.

Iran has rejected Trump’s claim of having “total control” over the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that the strategic waterway remains under Tehran’s management amid stalled negotiations between Washington and Tehran.

A senior Iranian official on Thursday (August 13) said the Strait of Hormuz remains under the control of Iran, rejecting US President Donald Trump's claim that Washington has taken control of the strategic waterway. Hossein Taeb, head of Iran's paramilitary Basij forces affiliated with the Revolutionary Guards, said the waterway remains under Tehran's management and control. "Today, you see that the Strait of Hormuz is under the management and control of the Islamic Republic, and our country continues on its path in complete security," Taeb said, according to Iranian state television. His remarks came a day after Trump claimed that the United States had "total control" over the Strait of Hormuz and said he intended to maintain that control as negotiations with Iran over reopening the waterway remained stalled. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, "The U.S.A. has total control over the Strait of Hormuz. I THINK WE WILL KEEP IT! Our Naval Blockade is being called, by everyone, 'A WALL OF STEEL,' and there is nothing Iran can do about it." Trump also claimed that Iran's military infrastructure had suffered severe damage. He ended the message with the phrase, "Praise be to Allah!" "All they have is FAKE NEWS and 300% INFLATION, and getting worse! Iran is all talk and no action, the Bully of the Middle East No Longer. Praise be to Allah! President," he added. Also Read: Russia-Japan tensions flare: Putin visits disputed islands, Tokyo protests, summons Russian envoy Iran and US clash over Strait of Hormuz Trump has repeatedly claimed that Washington controls the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for energy and other commodity shipments through the Middle East. Iran, however, has maintained that it effectively controls a large part of the waterway. Tehran also plans to impose a toll system in response to the US war launched by Trump on February 28. The dispute comes as Washington and Tehran continue behind-the-scenes diplomatic engagement. Representatives from both sides have held indirect discussions on measures to ease the Hormuz crisis and restore regular maritime traffic. Tehran has reportedly demanded compensation for war-related damage linked to the US-Israel. It has also sought compensation for economic losses caused by sanctions. Trump has publicly rejected the demand. Diplomatic efforts continue amid rising pressure At the same time, the Trump administration has increased economic pressure on Tehran by enforcing existing sanctions. Washington has also warned that further punitive measures could follow if Iran refuses to comply. The competing claims over control of the Strait of Hormuz come as both sides continue indirect discussions aimed at easing the crisis and restoring regular maritime traffic.

Iran has rejected Trump’s claim of having “total control” over the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that the strategic waterway remains under Tehran’s management amid stalled negotiations between Washington and Tehran.

Iran challenges Trump’s Hormuz claim; says Tehran controls strait, not US

The International Energy Agency is warning of a sharp drop in global oil demand this year, as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupts supplies and high fuel prices force consumers to cut back. The IEA now expects global oil demand to fall by 1.6 million barrels a day, significantly worse than its previous forecast.


IEA cuts oil demand forecast on war impact

A new U.S. government energy report is putting renewed focus on the Strait of Hormuz, as shipping through one of the world’s most important energy corridors remains constrained and uncertainty continues over how quickly oil flows will return to normal. The U.S. Energy Information Administration, or EIA, said in its latest Short-Term Energy Outlook that it expects severe constraints on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz to persist through August, before traffic gradually increases beginning in September. The agency said reduced shipments through the waterway are expected to further draw down global oil inventories in the coming months.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-bears-responsibility-iran-wants-polluter-pays-rule-for-strait-of-hormuz-as-oil-slick-plagues-qeshm-1786582552036">'Who bears responsibility?': Iran wants 'polluter pays' rule for Strait of Hormuz as oil slick plagues Qeshm</a> The assessment comes as President Donald Trump has said the United States has “total control” of the Strait, while administration officials have pointed to improvements in the movement of oil from the region. The administration has also disputed some estimates of how limited current shipping traffic remains. The EIA report, however, focuses primarily on the economic consequences of the disruption and the expected pace of recovery rather than the question of who controls the waterway. The agency now forecasts Brent crude oil to average around $85 per barrel during the third quarter of 2026, $11 per barrel higher than it projected just one month ago. The EIA expects prices to ease to around $78 per barrel in the fourth quarter as shipping increases and more oil production comes back online.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-iran-s-crypto-network-after-strait-of-hormuz-attacks-offers-15m-bounty-for-intel-on-irgc-finance-1786150050092">US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance</a> For the full year, the EIA forecasts Brent crude at an average of approximately $87 per barrel in 2026. It expects prices to decline further in 2027, averaging around $69 per barrel as inventories rebuild and supplies recover. The Strait of Hormuz is particularly important because it connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, providing a crucial export route for major Middle Eastern energy producers. Disruptions there can therefore have consequences well beyond the region, affecting global oil supplies, shipping costs, and ultimately prices paid by consumers. The latest EIA outlook also suggests that some effects of the conflict could persist even after shipping conditions improve. Around 5.5 million barrels per day of Middle Eastern oil production was offline in July, equivalent to more than 5% of global oil consumption. Although much of that production is expected to return, the EIA forecasts that approximately 600,000 barrels per day could remain offline through the end of 2027 as some producers face difficulties restoring output to pre-conflict levels. The outlook represents another shift in expectations for an oil market that has changed rapidly as conditions around Hormuz have evolved. In July, the EIA had expected Brent to average about $74 per barrel during the third quarter. Its new forecast of roughly $85 illustrates how continued restrictions through the Strait have altered the supply picture. The central question now is how quickly normal commercial traffic can resume. The EIA expects conditions to begin improving in September, but its latest forecast makes clear that the economic consequences of the disruption could continue long after more ships begin moving through the Strait.&nbsp;

The agency now forecasts Brent crude oil to average around $85 per barrel during the third quarter of 2026, $11 per barrel higher than it projected just one month ago. The EIA expects prices to ease to around $78 per barrel in the fourth quarter as shipping increases.

A new U.S. government energy report is putting renewed focus on the Strait of Hormuz, as shipping through one of the world’s most important energy corridors remains constrained and uncertainty continues over how quickly oil flows will return to normal. The U.S. Energy Information Administration, or EIA, said in its latest Short-Term Energy Outlook that it expects severe constraints on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz to persist through August, before traffic gradually increases beginning in September. The agency said reduced shipments through the waterway are expected to further draw down global oil inventories in the coming months. Also read | 'Who bears responsibility?': Iran wants 'polluter pays' rule for Strait of Hormuz as oil slick plagues Qeshm The assessment comes as President Donald Trump has said the United States has “total control” of the Strait, while administration officials have pointed to improvements in the movement of oil from the region. The administration has also disputed some estimates of how limited current shipping traffic remains. The EIA report, however, focuses primarily on the economic consequences of the disruption and the expected pace of recovery rather than the question of who controls the waterway. The agency now forecasts Brent crude oil to average around $85 per barrel during the third quarter of 2026, $11 per barrel higher than it projected just one month ago. The EIA expects prices to ease to around $78 per barrel in the fourth quarter as shipping increases and more oil production comes back online. Also read | US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance For the full year, the EIA forecasts Brent crude at an average of approximately $87 per barrel in 2026. It expects prices to decline further in 2027, averaging around $69 per barrel as inventories rebuild and supplies recover. The Strait of Hormuz is particularly important because it connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, providing a crucial export route for major Middle Eastern energy producers. Disruptions there can therefore have consequences well beyond the region, affecting global oil supplies, shipping costs, and ultimately prices paid by consumers. The latest EIA outlook also suggests that some effects of the conflict could persist even after shipping conditions improve. Around 5.5 million barrels per day of Middle Eastern oil production was offline in July, equivalent to more than 5% of global oil consumption. Although much of that production is expected to return, the EIA forecasts that approximately 600,000 barrels per day could remain offline through the end of 2027 as some producers face difficulties restoring output to pre-conflict levels. The outlook represents another shift in expectations for an oil market that has changed rapidly as conditions around Hormuz have evolved. In July, the EIA had expected Brent to average about $74 per barrel during the third quarter. Its new forecast of roughly $85 illustrates how continued restrictions through the Strait have altered the supply picture. The central question now is how quickly normal commercial traffic can resume. The EIA expects conditions to begin improving in September, but its latest forecast makes clear that the economic consequences of the disruption could continue long after more ships begin moving through the Strait.

The agency now forecasts Brent crude oil to average around $85 per barrel during the third quarter of 2026, $11 per barrel higher than it projected just one month ago. The EIA expects prices to ease to around $78 per barrel in the fourth quarter as shipping increases.

New EIA report warns Strait of Hormuz disruptions could keep pressure on global oil markets

Iran has called for environmental protection to be made a key part of any future arrangement governing the Strait of Hormuz, citing recent oil pollution along the country's southern coast. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei on Thursday (Aug 13) said videos showing oil contamination along the shores of Qeshm Island had emerged in recent days. He said preliminary evidence indicated that the pollution came from a foreign bulk carrier.According to Baqaei, contamination has been recorded at three coastal locations as well as across parts of the sea surface.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Footage filmed on Iran&#39;s Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz shows a significant oil spill on the island&#39;s Suza beach. Iranian authorities say they are investigating the cause of the spill. Approximate location: 26.771330, 56.056013<a href="https://x.com/GeoConfirmed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GeoConfirmed</a> <a href="https://t.co/yxh9wXLHqs">pic.twitter.com/yxh9wXLHqs</a>&mdash; Shayan Sardarizadeh (@Shayan86) <a href="https://x.com/Shayan86/status/2087472178786652520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Iran questions who will pay for the damage</h2>Baqaei argued that the incident was only one visible example of years of environmental degradation affecting the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. He said the damage to Iran's coastal areas over the decades had run into trillions of dollars and questioned who should be held responsible for the cost of repairing it.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Why must addressing the environmental condition of the Strait of Hormuz and its surrounding waters form an integral part of any future administration of the Strait? In recent days, videos have circulated showing oil pollution along the shores of Qeshm Island. This pollution… <a href="https://t.co/UpSWlqePvd">pic.twitter.com/UpSWlqePvd</a>&mdash; Esmaeil Baqaei (@IRIMFA_SPOX) <a href="https://x.com/IRIMFA_SPOX/status/2087641049858465917?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Iranian official pointed to several possible parties, including countries that consume energy exported from the region, shipping insurers, as well as nations involved in military operations in the Gulf."As the country with the longest coastline along the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, Iran cannot remain indifferent," Baqaei said. He added that all parties benefiting from commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have both a legal and moral responsibility to address environmental damage in the region.<h2>Tehran links reopening of Strait to US demands</h2>The comments came as Iran continues to tie the future of the strategic waterway to wider political and security demands.Iran's newly appointed Supreme National Security Council chief Mohsen Rezaei said Tehran would not fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz until the United States meets what he described as Iran's conditions.Rezaei said Washington must end the war and blockade, release Iran's frozen assets, and agree to a region-wide ceasefire covering Lebanon and Gaza. "Until all conditions are met, the Strait will remain closed," he said in a post on X.<h2>Why the Strait of Hormuz matters</h2>The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important maritime chokepoints, carrying a major share of global oil and gas shipments.Any prolonged disruption could affect energy markets, shipping routes and crude prices, while also increasing tensions between Iran, the United States and other regional powers. Commercial shipping is currently continuing under heightened security measures, but uncertainty remains high as diplomatic efforts focus on preventing a wider conflict and keeping the vital maritime route open.

Iran has demanded environmental safeguards be included in any future deal on the Strait of Hormuz, after oil pollution was reported along Qeshm Island. Tehran is also tying the reopening of the vital waterway to US concessions, including an end to the war and blockade.

Iran has called for environmental protection to be made a key part of any future arrangement governing the Strait of Hormuz, citing recent oil pollution along the country's southern coast. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei on Thursday (Aug 13) said videos showing oil contamination along the shores of Qeshm Island had emerged in recent days. He said preliminary evidence indicated that the pollution came from a foreign bulk carrier. According to Baqaei, contamination has been recorded at three coastal locations as well as across parts of the sea surface.

Iran has demanded environmental safeguards be included in any future deal on the Strait of Hormuz, after oil pollution was reported along Qeshm Island. Tehran is also tying the reopening of the vital waterway to US concessions, including an end to the war and blockade.

'Who bears responsibility?': Iran wants 'polluter pays' rule for Strait of Hormuz as oil slick plagues Qeshm

US President Donald Trump has escalated tensions by demanding that Iran pay billions in war reparations and compensation for damages caused over the past 50 years. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump asserted that the US Navy maintains "100 percent control" and an infallible blockade over the strategic Strait of Hormuz.


US president seeks reparations, Iran mocks Trump's surprise demand

Brent crude futures and US crude futures both rose about 5 per cent on Monday as hope for a potential deal to open the Strait of Hormuz faltered. Oil prices briefly soared to $90 per barrel earlier Tuesday, hitting an intraday high of $90.02. Prices have since pared gains slightly to fluctuate between $87 and $89. Similarly, spot gold hit a two-month high earlier today, climbing above $4,400 an ounce for the first time since early June. The precious metal touched an intraday peak of $4,434.84 per ounce before paring some gains to trade in the $4,380 to $4,390 range.&nbsp;Iran has issued six strict preconditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. They want Washington to completely "correct its behaviour", no hostile language, absolute cessation of US and allied military aggression, Iran and its regional network across Lebanon, Palestine, Yemen, and Iraq; lifting of blockade and troop withdrawl, war reparation, removal of all "cruel and illegal" economic and political sanctions and asset release.US President Donald Trump responded to Iran's new demands of the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, seeking compensation for the damages to US army and bases done by Iran.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-assembly-anti-neet-resolution-centre-abolish-exam-1786446372416">NEET is against 'social justice, equality, and rights of states': Tamil Nadu Assembly passes anti-NEET resolution</a>“We’re going to ask for money for the damage they’ve done over a 50-year period. So if there’s damages to be paid, I think Iran should pay those damages,” said Trump.&nbsp;"So if there's damages to be paid, I think Iran should pay those damages,” and that “Also, with respect to the Iran negotiations, Iran should be responsible for the damages and death caused to the people of Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Gaza!”The opening price of gold futures on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, was 0.6 per cent higher than Monday's opening price. This indicates that the precious metal is returning to its status of safe haven following a weak US labour report showing an unexpected loss of 23,000 jobs in July. The upcoming consumer price data due ​on Wednesday and producer price data on Thursday will provide further clues on the Fed's policy ​outlook. According to the CME FedWatch Tool. FEDWATCH on Monday, traders are currently pricing a 48 per cent chance of an interest-rate hike in September. An interest rate hike will put downward pressure on Gold prices.

Brent and US crude futures rose about 5% as hopes of reopening the Strait of Hormuz faded, while gold climbed above $4,400 following a weak US labour report.

Brent crude futures and US crude futures both rose about 5 per cent on Monday as hope for a potential deal to open the Strait of Hormuz faltered. Oil prices briefly soared to $90 per barrel earlier Tuesday, hitting an intraday high of $90.02. Prices have since pared gains slightly to fluctuate between $87 and $89. Similarly, spot gold hit a two-month high earlier today, climbing above $4,400 an ounce for the first time since early June. The precious metal touched an intraday peak of $4,434.84 per ounce before paring some gains to trade in the $4,380 to $4,390 range. Iran has issued six strict preconditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. They want Washington to completely "correct its behaviour", no hostile language, absolute cessation of US and allied military aggression, Iran and its regional network across Lebanon, Palestine, Yemen, and Iraq; lifting of blockade and troop withdrawl, war reparation, removal of all "cruel and illegal" economic and political sanctions and asset release. US President Donald Trump responded to Iran's new demands of the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, seeking compensation for the damages to US army and bases done by Iran. Also Read: NEET is against 'social justice, equality, and rights of states': Tamil Nadu Assembly passes anti-NEET resolution “We’re going to ask for money for the damage they’ve done over a 50-year period. So if there’s damages to be paid, I think Iran should pay those damages,” said Trump. "So if there's damages to be paid, I think Iran should pay those damages,” and that “Also, with respect to the Iran negotiations, Iran should be responsible for the damages and death caused to the people of Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Gaza!” The opening price of gold futures on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, was 0.6 per cent higher than Monday's opening price. This indicates that the precious metal is returning to its status of safe haven following a weak US labour report showing an unexpected loss of 23,000 jobs in July. The upcoming consumer price data due on Wednesday and producer price data on Thursday will provide further clues on the Fed's policy outlook. According to the CME FedWatch Tool. FEDWATCH on Monday, traders are currently pricing a 48 per cent chance of an interest-rate hike in September. An interest rate hike will put downward pressure on Gold prices.

Brent and US crude futures rose about 5% as hopes of reopening the Strait of Hormuz faded, while gold climbed above $4,400 following a weak US labour report.

Oil surges 5% as Iran-Hormuz deal falters; gold hits two-month high above $4,400

US-Iran war: Trump says Iran should pay for damages it’s done over 50 years

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin has said that Russia needs to create a railway link to the Indian Ocean to reduce risks of disruptions in maritime traffic via the Bosphorus Strait and Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;&nbsp;In an interview with TASS news agency, Khusnullin said, “A rail link to the Indian Ocean should also be explored. Risks related to the Bosphorus and the Strait of Hormuz might require alternative routes: through Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Any options providing access to India are acceptable.”&nbsp;Khusnullin said potential routes could pass through Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, and that any corridor providing connectivity to India would be considered “viable.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lashkar-commander-dies-mysteriously-at-islamabad-mosque-entrance-after-eating-at-unfamiliar-eatery-1786282982661">Lashkar commander dies ‘mysteriously’ at Islamabad mosque entrance after eating at ‘unfamiliar’ eatery</a>&nbsp;<h2>‘Any options providing access to India are acceptable’</h2>&nbsp;“A rail link to the Indian Ocean should also be explored. Risks related to the Bosphorus and the Strait of Hormuz might require alternative routes: through Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Any options providing access to India are acceptable,” Khusnullin told TASS.&nbsp;The proposal comes amid disruptions to maritime trade through the Strait of Hormuz following the West Asia conflict. The US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran on February 28. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Israeli targets and US military bases in the Gulf. Tehran also announced a maritime blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which handles around 20% of global oil trade and nearly 20% of worldwide LNG shipments.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-israel-rejects-board-of-peace-plan-for-gaza-disarmament-1786276611175">Netanyahu says Israel rejects Board of Peace plan for Gaza disarmament</a>&nbsp;Turkey also briefly restricted access to the Bosphorus strait following attacks on vessels in the strait, including Turkish-owned ships.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Need sustained investment in Russia’s construction sector’</h2>&nbsp;Khusnullin also emphasised the need for sustained investment in Russia’s construction sector. Russia’s construction industry currently demands long-term financing, he said, adding that the industry has the capacity to absorb an additional one trillion rubles annually.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The construction industry is already capable of handling an additional one trillion rubles annually. However, if such a volume is secured for the next five years, it would be possible to expand capacity and build even more,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-daniel-kinahan-the-suspected-cartel-boss-extradited-from-dubai-to-ireland-1786281059352">Who is Daniel Kinahan? The suspected cartel boss extradited from Dubai to Ireland</a>&nbsp;The potential rail link would give Russian freight operators a direct land route to India while reducing exposure to supply disruptions via maritime chokepoints.&nbsp;The prolonged disruption spiked global energy prices and disrupted international supply chains.&nbsp;However, though the proposal appears to be a solution, building the rail link would not be easy due to severe geopolitical challenges, given the security situation in Afghanistan and the complex regional relationships among the countries involved.

The potential rail link would give Russian freight operators a direct land route to India while reducing exposure to supply disruptions via maritime chokepoints. The prolonged disruption after the West Asia conflict spiked global energy prices and disrupted international supply chains.

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin has said that Russia needs to create a railway link to the Indian Ocean to reduce risks of disruptions in maritime traffic via the Bosphorus Strait and Strait of Hormuz. In an interview with TASS news agency, Khusnullin said, “A rail link to the Indian Ocean should also be explored. Risks related to the Bosphorus and the Strait of Hormuz might require alternative routes: through Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Any options providing access to India are acceptable.” Khusnullin said potential routes could pass through Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, and that any corridor providing connectivity to India would be considered “viable.” Also Read: Lashkar commander dies ‘mysteriously’ at Islamabad mosque entrance after eating at ‘unfamiliar’ eatery ‘Any options providing access to India are acceptable’ “A rail link to the Indian Ocean should also be explored. Risks related to the Bosphorus and the Strait of Hormuz might require alternative routes: through Turkmenistan, Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Any options providing access to India are acceptable,” Khusnullin told TASS. The proposal comes amid disruptions to maritime trade through the Strait of Hormuz following the West Asia conflict. The US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran on February 28. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Israeli targets and US military bases in the Gulf. Tehran also announced a maritime blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which handles around 20% of global oil trade and nearly 20% of worldwide LNG shipments. Also Read: Netanyahu says Israel rejects Board of Peace plan for Gaza disarmament Turkey also briefly restricted access to the Bosphorus strait following attacks on vessels in the strait, including Turkish-owned ships. ‘Need sustained investment in Russia’s construction sector’ Khusnullin also emphasised the need for sustained investment in Russia’s construction sector. Russia’s construction industry currently demands long-term financing, he said, adding that the industry has the capacity to absorb an additional one trillion rubles annually. “The construction industry is already capable of handling an additional one trillion rubles annually. However, if such a volume is secured for the next five years, it would be possible to expand capacity and build even more,” he added. Also Read: Who is Daniel Kinahan? The suspected cartel boss extradited from Dubai to Ireland The potential rail link would give Russian freight operators a direct land route to India while reducing exposure to supply disruptions via maritime chokepoints. The prolonged disruption spiked global energy prices and disrupted international supply chains. However, though the proposal appears to be a solution, building the rail link would not be easy due to severe geopolitical challenges, given the security situation in Afghanistan and the complex regional relationships among the countries involved.

The potential rail link would give Russian freight operators a direct land route to India while reducing exposure to supply disruptions via maritime chokepoints. The prolonged disruption after the West Asia conflict spiked global energy prices and disrupted international supply chains.

Russia moots rail link to India as Strait of Hormuz disruptions threaten trade

The Strait of Hormuz crisis is emerging as one of the biggest challenges for global energy security, with Iran claiming it now holds the upper hand over the vital waterway.

Iranian officials say Washington may have to accept Tehran’s terms for managing maritime traffic through the strait. The development comes after months of disruption and growing tensions between Iran, the United States and Israel.

The Strait of Hormuz has historically carried roughly 20 million barrels of oil per day, representing around a fifth of global oil consumption. Any prolonged disruption could therefore have major consequences for energy markets, shipping and the global economy.

At the same time, Gulf countries are exploring alternative routes. Saudi Arabia is considering expanding its east-west pipeline toward Yanbu on the Red Sea, while Kuwait is discussing expanded pipeline connections through Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The UAE already operates the Habshan-Fujairah pipeline, allowing crude to bypass the Strait of Hormuz.

Iraq is also examining alternative routes toward the Red Sea and Mediterranean, while Iran itself has developed infrastructure intended to reduce its dependence on Hormuz.

But experts warn that existing alternatives can absorb only a portion of the oil normally transported through the strait, while constructing major new pipelines could take years.

Iran Tightens Grip on Hormuz | Trump Faces Tough Choices as Gulf States Seek Alternative Oil Routes

Iran has issued a sweeping list of demands that the United States must meet before the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz can fully reopen to maritime traffic, raising fresh uncertainty over the future of the major global shipping route. Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, announced the conditions on Saturday in a statement carried by Iranian state media. His demands include an end to the US naval blockade and sanctions against Iran, the withdrawal of American military forces from the region, compensation for war damages and the release of frozen Iranian assets.&nbsp;Zolghadr also demanded an end to attacks against Iran’s regional allies and to what Tehran describes as US threats against Iran. The White House did not immediately respond to the demands. Under an earlier cease-fire agreement reached between Iran and the United States in June, sanctions were expected to be fully lifted only after a final agreement on Iran’s nuclear program. US officials have also previously maintained that Iran's frozen assets could be released only if Tehran agreed to give up its highly enriched uranium.&nbsp;The latest demands come as Iran and Oman continue negotiations over the future management and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the crucial waterway separating Iran from Oman and one of the world's most important energy shipping corridors. Iran effectively restricted traffic through the strait after the United States and Israel launched attacks against Iran in February. The disruption has since raised concerns over global oil supplies, shipping costs and energy prices. Zolghadr's statement has complicated expectations that an agreement between Iran and Oman could soon restore normal commercial traffic through the waterway. It also puts additional pressure on US President Donald Trump as Washington weighs how to contain the crisis while limiting the impact on energy prices and American consumers.&nbsp;Iranian officials had already indicated on Saturday that the reopening of Hormuz was unlikely to happen immediately. Hossein Mohebbi, a spokesman for Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, said reopening the waterway was “not contingent on the Iran-Oman negotiations.” Speaking to Tasnim, an Iranian outlet affiliated with the Guards, Mohebbi said reopening the strait would depend “on the United States fully accepting Iran’s conditions.” He did not provide a complete list of those conditions, but said Washington must not interfere in Iran's negotiations with Oman or other countries.&nbsp;Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, meanwhile, said Iran and Oman were “very close” to reaching an agreement, according to Tasnim. “However, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is contingent on other conditions, including the United States compensating for its violations of the Islamabad Memorandum,” Araghchi was quoted as saying. The Islamabad memorandum refers to the cease-fire arrangement reached between Iran and the United States in June with Pakistani mediation.&nbsp;The agreement called for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a temporary easing of oil sanctions against Iran. However, its language was sufficiently vague that Washington and Tehran developed different interpretations of the terms. The United States supported a southern shipping route that would allow vessels to skirt Oman's coastline and avoid Iranian waters. Iran objected to the arrangement and warned vessels using the route, with some ships subsequently coming under attack.&nbsp;The cease-fire later collapsed, and Washington reinstated its naval blockade of Iranian ports. “The Americans were seeking to establish new routes through the Strait of Hormuz, and despite the warnings issued by our country, they sought to undermine Iran’s management of the strait,” Araghchi said. “Therefore, any violation of the memorandum of understanding or of Iran’s management of the Strait of Hormuz is absolutely unacceptable to the Islamic Republic of Iran.”&nbsp;Araghchi said Iranian and Omani officials were negotiating a temporary route through the waterway, while the two countries' militaries were working out the operational details. Officials familiar with the emerging arrangement have said it could formalize some of Iran's claims over the management of shipping through the strait. The hard-line demands from Tehran may also reflect growing domestic political pressure on Araghchi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Both officials have faced criticism from Iranian hard-liners who oppose any agreement with Washington.&nbsp;Raz Zimmt, an Iran expert at Israel's Institute for National Security Studies, said the statements from Mohebbi and Araghchi suggested that Tehran sees the Iran-Oman talks as being primarily about determining how the waterway could eventually be reopened. Even if Iran and Oman finalize an agreement, Zimmt argued that Tehran is unlikely to implement it without progress from Washington on the commitments made under the earlier memorandum, including the removal of the naval blockade and renewed sanctions relief.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-braces-for-brutal-winter-as-zelenskyy-warns-virtually-no-thermal-plants-remain-intact-1786202069888">Ukraine braces for brutal winter as Zelenskyy warns virtually no thermal plants remain intact</a><h2>New attack on commercial shipping</h2>The diplomatic uncertainty was accompanied by another maritime incident on Saturday. The United Arab Emirates said an Iranian attack had targeted a tanker owned by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company while it was crossing the Strait of Hormuz. ADNOC said Friday that at least 15 of its vessels had been attacked in the waterway since the conflict began. The incidents have reportedly resulted in one crew member being killed and 20 others injured.&nbsp;Oman's Foreign Ministry condemned what it described as “repeated attacks on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz,” warning that such incidents violate international law and territorial sovereignty. At the same time, Oman said its negotiations with Iran were continuing in a positive environment and urged all sides to avoid actions that could undermine the progress already achieved.<h2>US seeks safe shipping route</h2>US Vice President JD Vance described Washington as being involved in the broader discussions with Oman and Iran during an interview with Fox News on Saturday. Vance said the talks were in “the middle of the game” and focused on creating a system that would allow commercial vessels to safely navigate the waterway.&nbsp;“What we’re really working through now is how you can actually set up a traffic scheme so that the ships that pass can pass through safely,” Mr. Vance said. “That includes of course demining, but it also includes a commitment from the Iranians that they’re not going to fire at commercial vessels.” Vance did not detail what concessions Washington might be prepared to make to Tehran. Instead, he emphasized the pressure currently facing Iran. “They’re hurting in a big way,” he said. “They want this thing to be over. The question is whether they’re able, their system is able, to give the things that are necessary for us to be happy.”<h2>Strait of Hormuz traffic remains severely disrupted</h2>The scale of the disruption is significant. According to maritime data company Kpler, slightly more than a dozen ships per day crossed the Strait of Hormuz over the past week. Before the conflict, the waterway handled an average of about 130 ships daily.The actual number of vessels crossing is difficult to establish because some ships have switched off their automatic identification transponders to avoid detection by Iranian or US forces involved in the maritime confrontation.&nbsp;The latest Iranian demands therefore leave the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz dependent on more than the emerging Iran-Oman arrangement. For Tehran, the waterway appears to have become part of a broader negotiation with Washington involving sanctions, military deployments, frozen Iranian assets, regional allies and the terms of the June cease-fire.&nbsp;For the United States and its allies, the immediate priority remains restoring safe commercial navigation without allowing Iran to gain unacceptable control over one of the world's most important maritime chokepoints. Until those competing demands are resolved, a full return to normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains uncertain.

Iran sets tough conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, demanding US sanctions relief, military withdrawal, compensation and frozen assets

Iran has issued a sweeping list of demands that the United States must meet before the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz can fully reopen to maritime traffic, raising fresh uncertainty over the future of the major global shipping route. Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, announced the conditions on Saturday in a statement carried by Iranian state media. His demands include an end to the US naval blockade and sanctions against Iran, the withdrawal of American military forces from the region, compensation for war damages and the release of frozen Iranian assets. Zolghadr also demanded an end to attacks against Iran’s regional allies and to what Tehran describes as US threats against Iran. The White House did not immediately respond to the demands. Under an earlier cease-fire agreement reached between Iran and the United States in June, sanctions were expected to be fully lifted only after a final agreement on Iran’s nuclear program. US officials have also previously maintained that Iran's frozen assets could be released only if Tehran agreed to give up its highly enriched uranium. The latest demands come as Iran and Oman continue negotiations over the future management and reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the crucial waterway separating Iran from Oman and one of the world's most important energy shipping corridors. Iran effectively restricted traffic through the strait after the United States and Israel launched attacks against Iran in February. The disruption has since raised concerns over global oil supplies, shipping costs and energy prices. Zolghadr's statement has complicated expectations that an agreement between Iran and Oman could soon restore normal commercial traffic through the waterway. It also puts additional pressure on US President Donald Trump as Washington weighs how to contain the crisis while limiting the impact on energy prices and American consumers. Iranian officials had already indicated on Saturday that the reopening of Hormuz was unlikely to happen immediately. Hossein Mohebbi, a spokesman for Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, said reopening the waterway was “not contingent on the Iran-Oman negotiations.” Speaking to Tasnim, an Iranian outlet affiliated with the Guards, Mohebbi said reopening the strait would depend “on the United States fully accepting Iran’s conditions.” He did not provide a complete list of those conditions, but said Washington must not interfere in Iran's negotiations with Oman or other countries. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, meanwhile, said Iran and Oman were “very close” to reaching an agreement, according to Tasnim. “However, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is contingent on other conditions, including the United States compensating for its violations of the Islamabad Memorandum,” Araghchi was quoted as saying. The Islamabad memorandum refers to the cease-fire arrangement reached between Iran and the United States in June with Pakistani mediation. The agreement called for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and a temporary easing of oil sanctions against Iran. However, its language was sufficiently vague that Washington and Tehran developed different interpretations of the terms. The United States supported a southern shipping route that would allow vessels to skirt Oman's coastline and avoid Iranian waters. Iran objected to the arrangement and warned vessels using the route, with some ships subsequently coming under attack. The cease-fire later collapsed, and Washington reinstated its naval blockade of Iranian ports. “The Americans were seeking to establish new routes through the Strait of Hormuz, and despite the warnings issued by our country, they sought to undermine Iran’s management of the strait,” Araghchi said. “Therefore, any violation of the memorandum of understanding or of Iran’s management of the Strait of Hormuz is absolutely unacceptable to the Islamic Republic of Iran.” Araghchi said Iranian and Omani officials were negotiating a temporary route through the waterway, while the two countries' militaries were working out the operational details. Officials familiar with the emerging arrangement have said it could formalize some of Iran's claims over the management of shipping through the strait. The hard-line demands from Tehran may also reflect growing domestic political pressure on Araghchi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. Both officials have faced criticism from Iranian hard-liners who oppose any agreement with Washington. Raz Zimmt, an Iran expert at Israel's Institute for National Security Studies, said the statements from Mohebbi and Araghchi suggested that Tehran sees the Iran-Oman talks as being primarily about determining how the waterway could eventually be reopened. Even if Iran and Oman finalize an agreement, Zimmt argued that Tehran is unlikely to implement it without progress from Washington on the commitments made under the earlier memorandum, including the removal of the naval blockade and renewed sanctions relief. Also Read: Ukraine braces for brutal winter as Zelenskyy warns virtually no thermal plants remain intact New attack on commercial shipping The diplomatic uncertainty was accompanied by another maritime incident on Saturday. The United Arab Emirates said an Iranian attack had targeted a tanker owned by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company while it was crossing the Strait of Hormuz. ADNOC said Friday that at least 15 of its vessels had been attacked in the waterway since the conflict began. The incidents have reportedly resulted in one crew member being killed and 20 others injured. Oman's Foreign Ministry condemned what it described as “repeated attacks on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz,” warning that such incidents violate international law and territorial sovereignty. At the same time, Oman said its negotiations with Iran were continuing in a positive environment and urged all sides to avoid actions that could undermine the progress already achieved. US seeks safe shipping route US Vice President JD Vance described Washington as being involved in the broader discussions with Oman and Iran during an interview with Fox News on Saturday. Vance said the talks were in “the middle of the game” and focused on creating a system that would allow commercial vessels to safely navigate the waterway. “What we’re really working through now is how you can actually set up a traffic scheme so that the ships that pass can pass through safely,” Mr. Vance said. “That includes of course demining, but it also includes a commitment from the Iranians that they’re not going to fire at commercial vessels.” Vance did not detail what concessions Washington might be prepared to make to Tehran. Instead, he emphasized the pressure currently facing Iran. “They’re hurting in a big way,” he said. “They want this thing to be over. The question is whether they’re able, their system is able, to give the things that are necessary for us to be happy.” Strait of Hormuz traffic remains severely disrupted The scale of the disruption is significant. According to maritime data company Kpler, slightly more than a dozen ships per day crossed the Strait of Hormuz over the past week. Before the conflict, the waterway handled an average of about 130 ships daily. The actual number of vessels crossing is difficult to establish because some ships have switched off their automatic identification transponders to avoid detection by Iranian or US forces involved in the maritime confrontation. The latest Iranian demands therefore leave the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz dependent on more than the emerging Iran-Oman arrangement. For Tehran, the waterway appears to have become part of a broader negotiation with Washington involving sanctions, military deployments, frozen Iranian assets, regional allies and the terms of the June cease-fire. For the United States and its allies, the immediate priority remains restoring safe commercial navigation without allowing Iran to gain unacceptable control over one of the world's most important maritime chokepoints. Until those competing demands are resolved, a full return to normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains uncertain.

Iran demands sanctions relief, US military withdrawal and compensation before reopening the Strait of Hormuz, complicating talks with Oman

Strait Of Hormuz reopening: These conditions set by Iran could decide what happens next

Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have signed a major trilateral defence pact, creating a new security arrangement amid escalating tensions across West Asia.

The agreement is being viewed as part of Saudi Arabia's effort to diversify its security partnerships while maintaining its longstanding relationship with the United States. The pact builds on the existing defence relationship between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, with Turkey now joining the arrangement.

Iranian officials and clerics have criticised the agreement, warning that closer military cooperation between the three countries will not guarantee security.

The pact comes as tensions remain high over the Strait of Hormuz, the conflict involving Iran-backed Houthi forces in Yemen and broader regional instability.

Turkey-Saudi-Pakistan Defence Pact | New Alliance Amid Iran Tensions | What It Means for West Asia

Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan have signed a major trilateral defence pact aimed at strengthening mutual security amid growing threats and instability across West Asia.

The Mecca Joint Defence Agreement brings together three strategically important countries and is being presented as a defensive arrangement rooted in the UN Charter. Officials have stressed that the pact is not intended to create a new military bloc or automatically commit the three countries to offensive operations.

The agreement comes amid escalating tensions involving Iran, the United States, Yemen and the wider Gulf region. Iranian officials have reacted sharply to the pact, with some warning Saudi Arabia that a security agreement with Turkey and Pakistan would not guarantee protection.

Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan Sign Trilateral Defence Pact Amid Iran Tensions

The United Arab Emirates on Saturday (August 8) condemned what it described as an Iranian attack on a vessel linked to its state-owned oil company ADNOC while the ship was transiting the Strait of Hormuz, accusing Tehran of engaging in ‘acts of piracy’. The UAE state news agency WAM initially reported that ADNOC said one of its vessels had been targeted by a missile early on Saturday. The company said the situation was under control.&nbsp;The UAE Foreign Ministry later condemned what it called ‘the hostile Iranian attack’ on an ADNOC vessel. Neither statement disclosed the name of the tanker, details of its cargo or the extent of any potential damage. No injuries were reported in the incident. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important energy shipping routes. Before the conflict, around one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passed through the narrow waterway separating Oman and Iran.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senate-passes-stopgap-spending-bill-to-avert-september-government-shutdown-1786188929192">US Senate passes Stopgap Spending Bill to avert September government shutdown</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">UAE Strongly Condemns Targeting of ADNOC Carrier While Transiting Strait of Hormuz <a href="https://t.co/hoOAZ8D0RT">https://t.co/hoOAZ8D0RT</a> <a href="https://t.co/UQ6BqzC2Ea">pic.twitter.com/UQ6BqzC2Ea</a>&mdash; MoFA وزارة الخارجية (@mofauae) <a href="https://x.com/mofauae/status/2086051852580467029?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Since the US-Israeli war on Iran started on February 28, shipping through the region has faced repeated disruptions. The turmoil has pushed up freight rates while increasing security concerns for commercial vessels operating in and around the strategic waterway. The UAE Foreign Ministry said the reported attack violated a UN Security Council resolution concerning freedom of navigation. It also accused Iran's Revolutionary Guards of ‘acts of piracy’ by targeting commercial shipping and using the Strait of Hormuz as a means of economic pressure.&nbsp;Abu Dhabi called on Tehran to stop attacks on commercial vessels and reopen the Strait of Hormuz fully and unconditionally. Iran's Revolutionary Guards have previously warned that vessels associated with Tehran's adversaries could face action while passing through the strait. The Guards have also threatened vessels that fail to comply with Iranian directives. ADNOC said on Friday that it had been significantly affected by what it described as unprovoked attacks on its personnel and assets.&nbsp;&nbsp;Despite the security challenges, the company said it continued working to meet customer requirements in an “exceptionally challenging environment.” According to ADNOC, 15 of its vessels have been attacked by missiles and drones while transiting the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict began. The company said three of those attacks occurred this week, resulting in the death of one crew member and injuries to 20 others.&nbsp;ADNOC did not identify those responsible for the attacks in its Friday statement. Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, commonly known as ADNOC, is one of the world's largest energy producers. The state-owned company exports crude oil, natural gas and refined petroleum products to customers around the globe. The latest incident adds to growing concerns over the safety of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy supplies.

UAE condemns an alleged Iranian attack on an ADNOC vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, accusing Iran of 'acts of piracy' and disrupting oil shipping

The United Arab Emirates on Saturday (August 8) condemned what it described as an Iranian attack on a vessel linked to its state-owned oil company ADNOC while the ship was transiting the Strait of Hormuz, accusing Tehran of engaging in ‘acts of piracy’. The UAE state news agency WAM initially reported that ADNOC said one of its vessels had been targeted by a missile early on Saturday. The company said the situation was under control. The UAE Foreign Ministry later condemned what it called ‘the hostile Iranian attack’ on an ADNOC vessel. Neither statement disclosed the name of the tanker, details of its cargo or the extent of any potential damage. No injuries were reported in the incident. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important energy shipping routes. Before the conflict, around one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passed through the narrow waterway separating Oman and Iran. Also Read: US Senate passes Stopgap Spending Bill to avert September government shutdown

UAE condemns an alleged Iranian missile attack on an ADNOC vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, accusing Tehran of ‘acts of piracy’

UAE accuses Iran of 'acts of piracy' after attack on ADNOC vessel in Strait of Hormuz

The United States has imposed sanctions on six entities and one individual linked to what it described as Iran's illicit digital asset network, accusing Tehran of using cryptocurrency channels to move billions of dollars and maintain international financial connections. The move comes days after Iran allegedly attacked commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.<h2>Two crypto exchanges targeted</h2>US State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the sanctions target two major digital asset exchanges that Washington claims are used by the Iranian regime to maintain access to the international financial system.The measures also target what the State Department described as the ringleader of a network involved in illicit digital asset activity, along with companies linked to him across multiple jurisdictions.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-attack-coming-wait-never-mind-iran-mocks-us-theatre-diplomacy-rejects-trump-s-claim-of-hormuz-progress-1786068935549">'Massive attack coming... wait, never mind': Iran mocks US 'theatre diplomacy,' rejects Trump's claim of Hormuz progress</a>"The Iranian regime launders billions of dollars by moving illicit funds through various channels, including digital asset exchanges," Pigott said.He added that Washington would continue working to cut off the financial resources Iran needs to threaten neighbouring countries, support terrorism and advance its nuclear programme.<h2>$15 million reward for intel on Iran’s IRGC financial network</h2>Alongside the sanctions, the State Department said its Rewards for Justice programme is offering up to $15 million for information that helps disrupt the financial mechanisms of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its affiliated branches.The sanctions were imposed under Executive Order 13902, which targets individuals and entities operating in Iran's financial and petroleum sectors, and Executive Order 13224, a counterterrorism authority used against terrorism financing networks.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-strait-of-hormuz-remains-open-despite-unwarranted-iranian-aggression-as-report-suggest-deal-to-reopen-vital-waterway-close-1785897369267">US says Strait of Hormuz remains open despite ‘unwarranted Iranian aggression,’ as report suggest deal to reopen vital waterway close</a><h2>Move follows Strait of Hormuz attacks</h2>Washington said the latest sanctions were directly linked to Iran's attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz earlier this week. The waterway has become a major flashpoint in the confrontation between the two countries, with its security and reopening also emerging as a key issue in discussions between Washington and Tehran.&nbsp;The sanctions come just a day after President Donald Trump said he believed the conflict with Iran could end “pretty soon.”&nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The US has sanctioned six entities and one individual over an alleged Iranian crypto network used to move billions of dollars. Washington also offered up to $15 million for information on the IRGC's financial networks.

The United States has imposed sanctions on six entities and one individual linked to what it described as Iran's illicit digital asset network, accusing Tehran of using cryptocurrency channels to move billions of dollars and maintain international financial connections. The move comes days after Iran allegedly attacked commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Two crypto exchanges targeted US State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the sanctions target two major digital asset exchanges that Washington claims are used by the Iranian regime to maintain access to the international financial system. The measures also target what the State Department described as the ringleader of a network involved in illicit digital asset activity, along with companies linked to him across multiple jurisdictions. Also read | 'Massive attack coming... wait, never mind': Iran mocks US 'theatre diplomacy,' rejects Trump's claim of Hormuz progress "The Iranian regime launders billions of dollars by moving illicit funds through various channels, including digital asset exchanges," Pigott said. He added that Washington would continue working to cut off the financial resources Iran needs to threaten neighbouring countries, support terrorism and advance its nuclear programme. $15 million reward for intel on Iran’s IRGC financial network Alongside the sanctions, the State Department said its Rewards for Justice programme is offering up to $15 million for information that helps disrupt the financial mechanisms of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and its affiliated branches. The sanctions were imposed under Executive Order 13902, which targets individuals and entities operating in Iran's financial and petroleum sectors, and Executive Order 13224, a counterterrorism authority used against terrorism financing networks. Also read | US says Strait of Hormuz remains open despite ‘unwarranted Iranian aggression,’ as report suggest deal to reopen vital waterway close Move follows Strait of Hormuz attacks Washington said the latest sanctions were directly linked to Iran's attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz earlier this week. The waterway has become a major flashpoint in the confrontation between the two countries, with its security and reopening also emerging as a key issue in discussions between Washington and Tehran. The sanctions come just a day after President Donald Trump said he believed the conflict with Iran could end “pretty soon.” Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The US has sanctioned six entities and one individual over an alleged Iranian crypto network used to move billions of dollars. Washington also offered up to $15 million for information on the IRGC's financial networks.

US sanctions Iran’s crypto network after Strait of Hormuz attacks, offers $15m bounty for intel on IRGC finance

Iranian Parliamentary Spokesperson Hassan Ghashghavi said that a framework for the management of the Strait of Hormuz has been agreed with Oman. He did not mention the details of the text and suggested that the final decision is yet to be agreed upon.&nbsp;“The general framework of the understanding with Oman has been determined, and the final text and details will be announced soon,” said Ghashghavi as reported by the state media ISNA.Tehran further added that complete opening of the Strait of Hormuz depends upon the US lifting the naval blockade. However, a US official responding to a Bloomberg report said that any route or temporary passage through the Strait of Hormuz should not require approval, permissions, tolls and charges, responding to a report by Bloomberg.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-july-2026-jobs-report-labour-market-slowdown-1786115221447">US loses 23,000 jobs in July as labour market slowdown deepens</a>"Any temporary routes will be without any impediments — meaning no approvals or permissions and no tolls or charges. The Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway, and no party controls the lanes or the ability to transit through them," said a US official said in a statement about the talks, as reported by ABC News.However, Ghashghavi maintained that there were three core pillars of passage through the Strait of Hormuz: entry and exit routing, route management and associated fees. He alleged that US and Zionist lobbies and several regional states failed to calculate Iran's intelligence capabilities or its response to contract breaches under Article 5 to an Iranian-managed arrangement in the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;"I state with confidence that both the entry and exit points of the maritime route through the Strait of Hormuz will be subject to Iranian management and control," &nbsp;said Ghashghavi as reported by ISNA. He further added that Iranian leadership wether its Iranian diplomatic channels, military forces, or the central government, remains aligned on the objective.

Iran says it has agreed on a framework with Oman for managing the Strait of Hormuz, while the US insists the international waterway requires no approvals or tolls.

Iranian Parliamentary Spokesperson Hassan Ghashghavi said that a framework for the management of the Strait of Hormuz has been agreed with Oman. He did not mention the details of the text and suggested that the final decision is yet to be agreed upon. “The general framework of the understanding with Oman has been determined, and the final text and details will be announced soon,” said Ghashghavi as reported by the state media ISNA. Tehran further added that complete opening of the Strait of Hormuz depends upon the US lifting the naval blockade. However, a US official responding to a Bloomberg report said that any route or temporary passage through the Strait of Hormuz should not require approval, permissions, tolls and charges, responding to a report by Bloomberg. Also Read: US loses 23,000 jobs in July as labour market slowdown deepens "Any temporary routes will be without any impediments — meaning no approvals or permissions and no tolls or charges. The Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway, and no party controls the lanes or the ability to transit through them," said a US official said in a statement about the talks, as reported by ABC News. However, Ghashghavi maintained that there were three core pillars of passage through the Strait of Hormuz: entry and exit routing, route management and associated fees. He alleged that US and Zionist lobbies and several regional states failed to calculate Iran's intelligence capabilities or its response to contract breaches under Article 5 to an Iranian-managed arrangement in the Strait of Hormuz. "I state with confidence that both the entry and exit points of the maritime route through the Strait of Hormuz will be subject to Iranian management and control," said Ghashghavi as reported by ISNA. He further added that Iranian leadership wether its Iranian diplomatic channels, military forces, or the central government, remains aligned on the objective.

Iran says it has agreed on a framework with Oman for managing the Strait of Hormuz, while the US insists the international waterway requires no approvals or tolls.

Iran says Hormuz framework agreed with Oman, final deal pending

Iran's Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf on Thursday (Aug 6) accused the United States of engaging in "theatre diplomacy," dismissing Washington's negotiating tactics as ineffective amid escalating tensions over the Strait of Hormuz.His remarks come after US President Donald Trump claimed the two sides were making progress in talks over reopening the strategic waterway, an assertion that Tehran has firmly denied.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/born-in-the-usa-trump-targets-birth-tourism-with-new-birthright-citizenship-executive-order-made-a-joke-out-of-it-1786060006452">Born in the USA? Trump targets 'birth tourism' with new birthright citizenship executive order</a><h2>Ghalibaf: 'We don't need more theatre'</h2>In a post on X on Thursday, Ghalibaf took a direct swipe at Washington's approach, accusing it of alternating between military threats and calls for negotiations. "Massive attack coming... wait, never mind, they want to negotiate. That's theatre diplomacy on loop," he wrote.“Using bullying + broken promises + fake news as leverage is a failed strategy. Acknowledge the facts and fulfil your commitments. We don't need more theatre.”<h2>Iran says military is ready for any threat</h2>The rhetoric was echoed by Iran's Acting Defence Minister Brigadier General Majid Ebn-e-Reza, who said the country's armed forces were fully prepared to respond to any external challenge.According to Iran's state news agency IRNA, Ebn-e-Reza said Iran's military strength was built on its domestic defence industry rather than foreign weapons. "Every day, the signs of the enemy's erosion of power become more evident; however, our Armed Forces, relying on the country's defence industry, are fully equipped to respond to any threat," he said.He also claimed that countries dependent on imported military equipment would eventually realise that Iran's indigenous defence capabilities had surpassed those of regional rivals.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-strait-of-hormuz-remains-open-despite-unwarranted-iranian-aggression-as-report-suggest-deal-to-reopen-vital-waterway-close-1785897369267">US says Strait of Hormuz remains open despite ‘unwarranted Iranian aggression,’ as report suggest deal to reopen vital waterway close</a><h2>Trump says talks are progressing</h2>The exchange follows fresh remarks by Trump, who warned that Iran would be "hit very hard" if the Strait of Hormuz was not reopened "very soon." The US president also said Washington was engaged in "very good discussions" with Iranian officials and suggested Tehran had reached out to negotiate.The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most strategically important shipping lanes, carrying a significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports.<h2>Tehran rejects negotiations</h2>Iran quickly rejected Trump's claims. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran was "not holding any negotiations with the United States at present," adding that Iran's diplomatic team remained in Tehran, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi away on a pilgrimage to Iraq.Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance acknowledged that talks, if they occur, would likely be difficult. In an interview with Fox News, Vance described Iran's leadership as divided and said negotiations would be "messy" and "take some time." He added that Washington would continue using military, economic and diplomatic pressure while maintaining that Iran would never be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon.`

Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has accused the United States of engaging in "theatre diplomacy", rejecting President Donald Trump's claims that talks over reopening the Strait of Hormuz are progressing. Tehran insists no negotiations are taking place.

Iran's Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf on Thursday (Aug 6) accused the United States of engaging in "theatre diplomacy," dismissing Washington's negotiating tactics as ineffective amid escalating tensions over the Strait of Hormuz. His remarks come after US President Donald Trump claimed the two sides were making progress in talks over reopening the strategic waterway, an assertion that Tehran has firmly denied. Also read | Born in the USA? Trump targets 'birth tourism' with new birthright citizenship executive order Ghalibaf: 'We don't need more theatre' In a post on X on Thursday, Ghalibaf took a direct swipe at Washington's approach, accusing it of alternating between military threats and calls for negotiations. "Massive attack coming... wait, never mind, they want to negotiate. That's theatre diplomacy on loop," he wrote. “Using bullying + broken promises + fake news as leverage is a failed strategy. Acknowledge the facts and fulfil your commitments. We don't need more theatre.” Iran says military is ready for any threat The rhetoric was echoed by Iran's Acting Defence Minister Brigadier General Majid Ebn-e-Reza, who said the country's armed forces were fully prepared to respond to any external challenge. According to Iran's state news agency IRNA, Ebn-e-Reza said Iran's military strength was built on its domestic defence industry rather than foreign weapons. "Every day, the signs of the enemy's erosion of power become more evident; however, our Armed Forces, relying on the country's defence industry, are fully equipped to respond to any threat," he said. He also claimed that countries dependent on imported military equipment would eventually realise that Iran's indigenous defence capabilities had surpassed those of regional rivals. Also read | US says Strait of Hormuz remains open despite ‘unwarranted Iranian aggression,’ as report suggest deal to reopen vital waterway close Trump says talks are progressing The exchange follows fresh remarks by Trump, who warned that Iran would be "hit very hard" if the Strait of Hormuz was not reopened "very soon." The US president also said Washington was engaged in "very good discussions" with Iranian officials and suggested Tehran had reached out to negotiate. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most strategically important shipping lanes, carrying a significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports. Tehran rejects negotiations Iran quickly rejected Trump's claims. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran was "not holding any negotiations with the United States at present," adding that Iran's diplomatic team remained in Tehran, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi away on a pilgrimage to Iraq. Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance acknowledged that talks, if they occur, would likely be difficult. In an interview with Fox News, Vance described Iran's leadership as divided and said negotiations would be "messy" and "take some time." He added that Washington would continue using military, economic and diplomatic pressure while maintaining that Iran would never be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon.`

Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has accused the United States of engaging in "theatre diplomacy", rejecting President Donald Trump's claims that talks over reopening the Strait of Hormuz are progressing. Tehran insists no negotiations are taking place.

'Massive attack coming... wait, never mind': Iran mocks US 'theatre diplomacy,' rejects Trump's claim of Hormuz progress

West Asia remains on edge as Iran and Oman move closer to finalizing a Strait of Hormuz shipping agreement while tensions continue to rise across the region. Israel has launched fresh strikes on southern Lebanon, with the IDF citing Hezbollah ceasefire violations. At the same time, Iran has reportedly warned Gulf nations that their energy infrastructure could become targets if they fail to persuade the United States to halt military action.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has reportedly urged U.S. President Donald Trump to delay military action and prioritize diplomacy. Meanwhile, Washington continues to express frustration over stalled talks with Tehran, even as negotiations over maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz continue through Oman.

Iran Warns Gulf States | Israel Strikes Lebanon as Hormuz Talks Continue | West Asia Crisis

West Asia is witnessing another dangerous escalation despite reports that Iran and Oman are close to finalizing a framework for commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Fresh Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon have heightened tensions, even as diplomatic efforts continue between Israel and Lebanon.

Meanwhile, Iran has reportedly warned Gulf nations that any fresh U.S. military action could trigger retaliation against critical infrastructure, including oil fields, refineries, electricity grids, water facilities, and transport networks. The developments come as Washington continues to pursue negotiations with Tehran while expressing concerns over divisions within Iran's leadership.

As uncertainty grows over the future of the Hormuz shipping route and the fragile Israel-Lebanon ceasefire, fears of a broader regional conflict continue to mount.

Iran Warns Gulf States of Retaliation | Israel Launches Fresh Strikes on Lebanon | GRAVITAS 

The Russia-Ukraine conflict is escalating in the Black Sea, raising fresh concerns over maritime security and global trade. At the same time, tensions continue to simmer in West Asia around the Strait of Hormuz and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, two of the world's most strategic shipping chokepoints. With multiple maritime flashpoints under pressure, fears are growing over energy supplies, commercial shipping, and regional stability.

Russia and Ukraine Escalate Black Sea War, Bab Al-Mandeb and Hormuz Tensions Continue in West Asia

Iran and Oman are reportedly close to finalizing a new framework governing commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most strategically important maritime chokepoints.

According to reports, the proposed arrangement would route inbound vessels through Iranian territorial waters and outbound traffic through Omani waters, with no tolls during an initial 60-day period. The agreement could significantly increase Iran's role in managing shipping through the strait and reshape regional geopolitics.

The United States has not officially responded to the reports, while Vice President JD Vance has warned that negotiations with Iran remain complex. Analysts say any agreement may only provide a temporary solution as political divisions continue within both Iran and the United States.

Iran-Oman Near Strait of Hormuz Shipping Deal | Will the U.S. Accept the New Framework?

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has not only caused an economic crisis in the world, but an ecological disaster is also waiting to happen. More than 1,500 ships were stranded in the crucial waterway used for transporting oil, and several are also waiting to cross the Persian Gulf. &nbsp;A study has flagged that this could create a major biofouling issue, as the stagnant waters will become breeding grounds for biofilms and other organisms. Algae, microbes, barnacles, mussels and other invertebrates will cling to the sides and bottoms of the vessels, causing them to spread when the ships start moving.&nbsp;This super-spreader event will lead the invasive species to take over regions they are not supposed to be in otherwise. That would be a major problem for marine life in those places where the native species will be left struggling to survive. The study was carried out by a team of researchers led by the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES).&nbsp;&nbsp;“Ships in the Gulf region had remained idle there for at least 40 times longer than an average stay,” the researchers wrote in a study published in Biological Invasions.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/strait-of-hormuz-deal-with-oman-being-finalised-iran-s-foreign-ministry-1785945741501">Strait of Hormuz deal with Oman being ‘finalised’: Iran’s foreign ministry</a>&nbsp;The authors wrote that it would take endemic organisms only about ten days to spread and grow on the underside of the ships. Even if the surfaces have been pretreated with antifouling coatings, it would be no problem for them because the coating starts degrading after being exposed for long periods to ocean water.<h2>Can these organisms survive the long trip through hot waters?</h2>One could argue that organisms living in the hypersaline shallow waters would not be able to survive the long journeys and the warmer ocean waters elsewhere. However, the study states that endemic organisms in the Persian Gulf have evolved to tolerate industrial and urban stresses, and also surface temperatures of over 38 °C. This would allow them to cross the ocean without any problem and colonise other parts of the sea.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cargo-vessel-hit-projectile-strait-of-hormuz-oman-us-iran-tensions-1785842819824">Cargo vessel hit by 'unknown projectile' in Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Oman</a><h2>Stranding in hot months gave organisms the perfect breeding ground</h2>The ships have been stranded in the Strait of Hormuz for the summer and spring months. This has created ideal warm conditions for these organisms to reproduce. With thousands of ships available to latch onto, the larvae of the invasive species will have no problem finding a surface to cling to and grow. Some of these species will turn parasitic, meaning they can spread diseases that will kill native species and could possibly even reach humans.&nbsp;The team suggest assessing the extent of biofouling on ships before departure and predicting their routes and any ports where they may remain temporarily idle to prevent the spread of invasive species. Ports already vulnerable to invasive species need rapid response measures to reduce the risk. They add that now is not the time to stop them from spreading on the vessels since they would have already taken over. What is needed is quick and effective coordination action to stop this from becoming a super-spreader event. &nbsp;

Stranded ships in the Strait of Hormuz could trigger a major ecological disaster, where native marine species could get infected and left struggling to survive. Humans could also fall victim to this ecological crisis if the right steps are not taken now.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has not only caused an economic crisis in the world, but an ecological disaster is also waiting to happen. More than 1,500 ships were stranded in the crucial waterway used for transporting oil, and several are also waiting to cross the Persian Gulf. A study has flagged that this could create a major biofouling issue, as the stagnant waters will become breeding grounds for biofilms and other organisms. Algae, microbes, barnacles, mussels and other invertebrates will cling to the sides and bottoms of the vessels, causing them to spread when the ships start moving. This super-spreader event will lead the invasive species to take over regions they are not supposed to be in otherwise. That would be a major problem for marine life in those places where the native species will be left struggling to survive. The study was carried out by a team of researchers led by the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science (UMCES). “Ships in the Gulf region had remained idle there for at least 40 times longer than an average stay,” the researchers wrote in a study published in Biological Invasions. Also Read: Strait of Hormuz deal with Oman being ‘finalised’: Iran’s foreign ministry The authors wrote that it would take endemic organisms only about ten days to spread and grow on the underside of the ships. Even if the surfaces have been pretreated with antifouling coatings, it would be no problem for them because the coating starts degrading after being exposed for long periods to ocean water. Can these organisms survive the long trip through hot waters? One could argue that organisms living in the hypersaline shallow waters would not be able to survive the long journeys and the warmer ocean waters elsewhere. However, the study states that endemic organisms in the Persian Gulf have evolved to tolerate industrial and urban stresses, and also surface temperatures of over 38 °C. This would allow them to cross the ocean without any problem and colonise other parts of the sea. Also Read: Cargo vessel hit by 'unknown projectile' in Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Oman Stranding in hot months gave organisms the perfect breeding ground The ships have been stranded in the Strait of Hormuz for the summer and spring months. This has created ideal warm conditions for these organisms to reproduce. With thousands of ships available to latch onto, the larvae of the invasive species will have no problem finding a surface to cling to and grow. Some of these species will turn parasitic, meaning they can spread diseases that will kill native species and could possibly even reach humans. The team suggest assessing the extent of biofouling on ships before departure and predicting their routes and any ports where they may remain temporarily idle to prevent the spread of invasive species. Ports already vulnerable to invasive species need rapid response measures to reduce the risk. They add that now is not the time to stop them from spreading on the vessels since they would have already taken over. What is needed is quick and effective coordination action to stop this from becoming a super-spreader event.

Stranded ships in the Strait of Hormuz could trigger a major ecological disaster, where native marine species could get infected and left struggling to survive. Humans could also fall victim to this ecological crisis if the right steps are not taken now.

Something is lurking under the ships in Strait of Hormuz, and could spawn a 'biological apocalypse'

The Iran crisis has reshaped global energy markets, sending crude oil prices soaring and delivering massive profits to the world's biggest oil companies. As disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz pushed oil above $126 per barrel, energy giants including Saudi Aramco, ExxonMobil, Chevron, Shell, BP, and TotalEnergies reported record quarterly earnings.

Combined profits reached nearly $93 billion between April and June, while consumers worldwide struggled with soaring fuel and energy costs. The windfall has sparked political criticism and renewed calls for stronger taxes on excess profits and greater investment in clean energy.

Iran War Fuels Oil Profits: Energy Giants Earn $93 Billion in Just 3 Months

Iran’s foreign ministry said on Wednesday that a deal with Oman on a route through the Strait of Hormuz is being “finalised”, but added that the US and Israel still pose a danger to ships in the vital waterway.&nbsp;Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said in an interview with the country’s state broadcaster IRIB that talks with Oman on the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz have been positive and Iran and Oman have come to an agreement on the geographic characteristics of a shipping route in the key waterway.&nbsp;Baghaei further said that Iran and Oman are in the final stage of preparing a joint announcement on the agreement, provided “certain third parties” do not interfere in the process.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-army-discards-whatsapp-over-spying-and-data-breach-fears-switches-to-china-s-wechat-1785933108236">Pakistan Army discards WhatsApp over spying and data breach fears, switches to China’s WeChat</a>&nbsp;“Iran is trying to formulate the necessary mechanisms for future arrangements for the management of shipping traffic in this strategic crossing, in cooperation with Oman, and the final results of these negotiations will be announced after the conclusion,” Baqaei told IRIB.&nbsp;The Iranian-Omani proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz would have no tolls or service fees for ships transiting the waterway, reported CBS News, citing sources.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/munir-protege-mohsin-naqvi-s-claim-of-unearthing-huge-scam-triggers-tremors-in-pakistan-s-power-corridors-1785869067161">Munir-protege Mohsin Naqvi’s claim of unearthing huge scam triggers tremors in Pakistan’s power corridors</a>&nbsp;Under the proposal, ships entering the strait would use the route closest to Iran, under Tehran’s coordination. To exit, ships would use the route closest to Oman, coordinated by Muscat, sources said.&nbsp;The proposal would also exclude tolls or service fees to transit the vital waterway, a major sticking point in the various talks held between the US, Iran, and mediators.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/organised-groups-turned-students-stir-into-violent-protest-says-sheikh-hasina-1785936691644">‘Organised groups turned students’ stir into violent protest,’ says Sheikh Hasina</a>&nbsp;If approved, the US and Iran would return to the negotiating table under terms set out in the memorandum of understanding signed in June, which calls for a 60-day period of free transit through the strait.&nbsp;Iranian Foreign Ministry’s Telegram page shared that Baghaei, however, pointed out that many factors contributing to insecurity in the strait are still in place, and cited the US’s declared naval blockade on Iran and other “aggressive and threatening actions against Iran and its interests”.

Under the proposal, ships entering the strait would use the route closest to Iran, under Tehran’s coordination. To exit, ships would use the route closest to Oman, coordinated by Muscat. It would also exclude tolls or service fees to transit the vital waterway, a major sticking point.

Iran’s foreign ministry said on Wednesday that a deal with Oman on a route through the Strait of Hormuz is being “finalised”, but added that the US and Israel still pose a danger to ships in the vital waterway. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said in an interview with the country’s state broadcaster IRIB that talks with Oman on the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz have been positive and Iran and Oman have come to an agreement on the geographic characteristics of a shipping route in the key waterway. Baghaei further said that Iran and Oman are in the final stage of preparing a joint announcement on the agreement, provided “certain third parties” do not interfere in the process. Also Read: Pakistan Army discards WhatsApp over spying and data breach fears, switches to China’s WeChat “Iran is trying to formulate the necessary mechanisms for future arrangements for the management of shipping traffic in this strategic crossing, in cooperation with Oman, and the final results of these negotiations will be announced after the conclusion,” Baqaei told IRIB. The Iranian-Omani proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz would have no tolls or service fees for ships transiting the waterway, reported CBS News, citing sources. Also Read: Munir-protege Mohsin Naqvi’s claim of unearthing huge scam triggers tremors in Pakistan’s power corridors Under the proposal, ships entering the strait would use the route closest to Iran, under Tehran’s coordination. To exit, ships would use the route closest to Oman, coordinated by Muscat, sources said. The proposal would also exclude tolls or service fees to transit the vital waterway, a major sticking point in the various talks held between the US, Iran, and mediators. Also Read: ‘Organised groups turned students’ stir into violent protest,’ says Sheikh Hasina If approved, the US and Iran would return to the negotiating table under terms set out in the memorandum of understanding signed in June, which calls for a 60-day period of free transit through the strait. Iranian Foreign Ministry’s Telegram page shared that Baghaei, however, pointed out that many factors contributing to insecurity in the strait are still in place, and cited the US’s declared naval blockade on Iran and other “aggressive and threatening actions against Iran and its interests”.

Under the proposal, ships entering the strait would use the route closest to Iran, under Tehran’s coordination. To exit, ships would use the route closest to Oman, coordinated by Muscat. It would also exclude tolls or service fees to transit the vital waterway, a major sticking point.

Strait of Hormuz deal with Oman being ‘finalised’: Iran’s foreign ministry

Efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz appear to be gathering pace, with Iran and the US signalling that an agreement between Tehran and Oman could be reached soon. While no official draft has been made public, reports from multiple sources suggest negotiators are working on a temporary framework to restore shipping through one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints.&nbsp;Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said the discussions are “focused on establishing safe shipping routes while safeguarding the sovereign rights and security interests of Iran and Oman alike”. He did not provide further details about the proposed arrangement.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-re-looking-for-creative-and-unconventional-ways-to-punish-iran-us-officer-s-alleged-email-to-troops-amid-nuke-talks-with-tehran-1785744006496">‘We’re looking for creative and unconventional ways to punish Iran’: US officer’s alleged email to troops amid nuke talks with Tehran</a>&nbsp;According to Reuters, which cited a senior Iranian source involved in the negotiations, the talks are centred on a temporary plan that would give Iran oversight of vessels entering the Strait while allowing Oman to manage outbound traffic.&nbsp;Under the reported proposal, inbound ships would travel through a route monitored by Iran, while outbound vessels would use a lane between Iran and Oman. Oman would issue exit clearance after notifying Tehran, with Iran retaining the ability to intervene if necessary.&nbsp;The same source told Reuters that Iran was “unlikely to change its position”, arguing that Tehran had already made a significant concession by dropping its earlier demand for full control over shipping in both directions.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-kind-of-madness-iran-vows-to-target-israeli-and-us-energy-infrastructure-if-attacked-as-trump-weighs-fresh-strikes-1785537054828">'A kind of madness': Iran vows to target Israeli and US energy infrastructure if attacked as Trump weighs fresh strikes</a>&nbsp;The Associated Press, citing two regional officials familiar with the discussions, reported a broadly similar framework. According to the report, vessels would enter through an Iranian-controlled corridor and exit via an Omani-managed route.&nbsp;The AP report also said ships using the passage would be required to pay service fees intended to cover security and environmental protection measures. It added that any agreement would be tied to the lifting of the US blockade on Iranian ports, although neither Washington nor Tehran has publicly confirmed such a condition.&nbsp;Iran’s state-run Press TV reported that negotiators are discussing the creation of a new “middle corridor” through the Strait of Hormuz. According to the broadcaster, the proposed route would replace the existing northern and southern shipping lanes currently used by commercial vessels.&nbsp;Officials from Iran, Oman and the United States have not released a joint statement on the talks, and the final contours of any agreement remain unclear. However, reports from multiple outlets indicate that negotiations are progressing, with maritime access, security arrangements and sovereignty remaining at the centre of the discussions.

Iran and Oman are negotiating a temporary framework to reopen the Strait of Hormuz using separate controlled corridors and service fees to restore safe commercial maritime shipping.  

Efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz appear to be gathering pace, with Iran and the US signalling that an agreement between Tehran and Oman could be reached soon. While no official draft has been made public, reports from multiple sources suggest negotiators are working on a temporary framework to restore shipping through one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said the discussions are “focused on establishing safe shipping routes while safeguarding the sovereign rights and security interests of Iran and Oman alike”. He did not provide further details about the proposed arrangement. Also read: ‘We’re looking for creative and unconventional ways to punish Iran’: US officer’s alleged email to troops amid nuke talks with Tehran According to Reuters, which cited a senior Iranian source involved in the negotiations, the talks are centred on a temporary plan that would give Iran oversight of vessels entering the Strait while allowing Oman to manage outbound traffic. Under the reported proposal, inbound ships would travel through a route monitored by Iran, while outbound vessels would use a lane between Iran and Oman. Oman would issue exit clearance after notifying Tehran, with Iran retaining the ability to intervene if necessary. The same source told Reuters that Iran was “unlikely to change its position”, arguing that Tehran had already made a significant concession by dropping its earlier demand for full control over shipping in both directions. Also read: 'A kind of madness': Iran vows to target Israeli and US energy infrastructure if attacked as Trump weighs fresh strikes The Associated Press, citing two regional officials familiar with the discussions, reported a broadly similar framework. According to the report, vessels would enter through an Iranian-controlled corridor and exit via an Omani-managed route. The AP report also said ships using the passage would be required to pay service fees intended to cover security and environmental protection measures. It added that any agreement would be tied to the lifting of the US blockade on Iranian ports, although neither Washington nor Tehran has publicly confirmed such a condition. Iran’s state-run Press TV reported that negotiators are discussing the creation of a new “middle corridor” through the Strait of Hormuz. According to the broadcaster, the proposed route would replace the existing northern and southern shipping lanes currently used by commercial vessels. Officials from Iran, Oman and the United States have not released a joint statement on the talks, and the final contours of any agreement remain unclear. However, reports from multiple outlets indicate that negotiations are progressing, with maritime access, security arrangements and sovereignty remaining at the centre of the discussions.

Iran and Oman are negotiating a temporary framework to reopen the Strait of Hormuz using separate controlled corridors and service fees to restore safe commercial maritime shipping. &nbsp;

Iran-Oman Hormuz talks: Where things stand | WION Decodes

The United States on Tuesday (Aug 4) said the southern route through the Strait of Hormuz remains open to commercial shipping despite what it described as "unwarranted Iranian aggression," with US Central Command (CENTCOM) claiming American forces have already helped more than 1,000 vessels safely transit the strategic waterway over the past three months.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-vessel-sinks-after-red-sea-attack-off-yemen-all-crew-rescued-1785870462603">Indian vessel sinks after Red Sea attack off Yemen; all crew rescued</a>In a statement posted on X on Tuesday (local time), CENTCOM said commercial traffic continues to move through the southern shipping lane without disruption. "The southern route through the Strait of Hormuz remains free and open for all commercial vessels seeking to transit the international waterway. Over the past three months, U.S. forces have assisted more than 1,000 vessels in successfully transiting the strait despite unwarranted Iranian aggression, and these transits continue today."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The southern route through the Strait of Hormuz remains free and open for all commercial vessels seeking to transit the international waterway. Over the past three months, U.S. forces have assisted more than 1,000 vessels in successfully transiting the strait despite unwarranted… <a href="https://t.co/TcszH0GimG">pic.twitter.com/TcszH0GimG</a>&mdash; U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://x.com/CENTCOM/status/2084744999833378955?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 4, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>US rejects Iranian claims over shipping routes</h2>The statement comes as tensions persist between Washington and Tehran over navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints, through which a significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies pass.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-army-long-range-missile-stockpiles-iran-war-report-1785854932249">US Army exhausts 'virtually all' long-range missile stockpiles during Iran war</a>According to Al Jazeera, a US official said temporary shipping routes through the Strait would not require permits, approvals or fees, arguing that no single country has authority over navigation in the international waterway.The official said vessels would be free to use any temporary routes established without seeking approval from any party.<h2>Iran insists only its designated route can be used</h2>The US remarks came after senior Iranian military adviser Mohsen Rezaee rejected President Donald Trump's comments about reopening the Strait.According to Iran's Press TV, Rezaee said Iran would not allow ships to use any route other than one designated by Tehran. He also accused Washington of violating a previous memorandum of understanding before launching military strikes. He warned that US warships using what he described as an unauthorised route would be targeted.<h2>US, Iran nearing Hormuz deal: Report</h2>Meanwhile, an Axios report suggests that the United States, Iran and Oman are reportedly close to reaching an interim agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, with Washington aiming to announce the deal as early as Wednesday.Citing two regional sources and a US official, the publication reported that, if finalised, the proposed 60-day arrangement would restore commercial shipping through one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints while longer-term negotiations continue.What the proposed interim deal includesAccording to the report, the draft agreement would introduce temporary shipping lanes coordinated by Iran and Oman.Under the proposal:<ul><li>All inbound commercial vessels entering the Gulf would use a northern shipping lane through Iranian waters.</li><li>All outbound vessels leaving the Gulf for the Arabian Sea would travel through a southern lane in Omani waters, in coordination with Iran.</li><li>No tolls, transit fees or permits would be required during the 60-day interim period.</li><li>The parties would work to clear naval mines from the median shipping lane within 30 days.</li><li>Once the central lane is cleared, it would be used for both inbound and outbound traffic under a permanent arrangement to be negotiated between Oman and Iran.</li></ul>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

The US says the southern shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz remains open despite tensions with Iran, with CENTCOM claiming American forces have helped more than 1,000 commercial vessels safely transit the strategic waterway over the past three months.

The United States on Tuesday (Aug 4) said the southern route through the Strait of Hormuz remains open to commercial shipping despite what it described as "unwarranted Iranian aggression," with US Central Command (CENTCOM) claiming American forces have already helped more than 1,000 vessels safely transit the strategic waterway over the past three months. Also read | Indian vessel sinks after Red Sea attack off Yemen; all crew rescued In a statement posted on X on Tuesday (local time), CENTCOM said commercial traffic continues to move through the southern shipping lane without disruption. "The southern route through the Strait of Hormuz remains free and open for all commercial vessels seeking to transit the international waterway. Over the past three months, U.S. forces have assisted more than 1,000 vessels in successfully transiting the strait despite unwarranted Iranian aggression, and these transits continue today."

The US says the southern shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz remains open despite tensions with Iran, with CENTCOM claiming American forces have helped more than 1,000 commercial vessels safely transit the strategic waterway over the past three months.

US says Strait of Hormuz remains open despite ‘unwarranted Iranian aggression,’ as report suggest deal to reopen vital waterway close

Iran is considering allowing European nations to remove mines from the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports. This is big deviation from Tehran's earlier stand that could lead to the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and allow normal shipping in the waterway. It also opens up great prospects for peace negotiations with the US.&nbsp;In recent weeks Tehran has shown signs of easing its stand, said diplomats familiar with the matter to Bloomberg on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;Iran’s foreign ministry hasn't yet responded on the matter to the media house.&nbsp;<h2>Rubio, Bessent hint at reaching deal to reopen Hormuz</h2>&nbsp;This comes amid US secretary of state Marco Rubio ⁠saying on Tuesday ​that Iran ⁠and Oman have made progress ​on ‌getting ‌more ships through ‌the strait of Hormuz but no final agreement has been ‌reached.&nbsp;“There’s been progress made ​in those talks, but not finality yet. ⁠We’re hoping that ​will happen ​very ​shortly,” said Rubio to reporters ‌at ​the ​State Department.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-army-long-range-missile-stockpiles-iran-war-report-1785854932249">US Army exhausts 'virtually all' long-range missile stockpiles during Iran war</a>&nbsp;"There's a conversation and a negotiation that we are involved in between Oman and Iran on how more ships can be able to go through there safely in the short term," Rubio added.&nbsp;Earlier today, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also spoke about the possibility of US announce a deal with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz “today or tomorrow".&nbsp;Speaking to CBS Bessent said, "There is a chance we may have a deal today or tomorrow to open the strait and move towards a more normalized position in this conflict."&nbsp;These remarks by Rubio and Bessent has shown a positive impact on the oil prices as they have dropped. The main US oil contract, West Texas Intermediate, dropped five percent to $76.32 a barrel, while the cost of a barrel of brent crude, the global benchmark for oil prices, slid back below $80 a barrel.

This comes amid US secretary of state Marco Rubio ⁠saying on Tuesday ​that Iran ⁠and Oman have made progress ​on ‌getting ‌more ships through ‌the strait of Hormuz.

Iran is considering allowing European nations to remove mines from the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports. This is big deviation from Tehran's earlier stand that could lead to the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and allow normal shipping in the waterway. It also opens up great prospects for peace negotiations with the US. In recent weeks Tehran has shown signs of easing its stand, said diplomats familiar with the matter to Bloomberg on condition of anonymity. Iran’s foreign ministry hasn't yet responded on the matter to the media house. Rubio, Bessent hint at reaching deal to reopen Hormuz This comes amid US secretary of state Marco Rubio ⁠saying on Tuesday that Iran ⁠and Oman have made progress on ‌getting ‌more ships through ‌the strait of Hormuz but no final agreement has been ‌reached. “There’s been progress made in those talks, but not finality yet. ⁠We’re hoping that will happen very shortly,” said Rubio to reporters ‌at the State Department. ALSO READ: US Army exhausts 'virtually all' long-range missile stockpiles during Iran war "There's a conversation and a negotiation that we are involved in between Oman and Iran on how more ships can be able to go through there safely in the short term," Rubio added. Earlier today, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also spoke about the possibility of US announce a deal with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz “today or tomorrow". Speaking to CBS Bessent said, "There is a chance we may have a deal today or tomorrow to open the strait and move towards a more normalized position in this conflict." These remarks by Rubio and Bessent has shown a positive impact on the oil prices as they have dropped. The main US oil contract, West Texas Intermediate, dropped five percent to $76.32 a barrel, while the cost of a barrel of brent crude, the global benchmark for oil prices, slid back below $80 a barrel.

This comes amid US secretary of state Marco Rubio ⁠saying on Tuesday ​that Iran ⁠and Oman have made progress ​on ‌getting ‌more ships through ‌the strait of Hormuz.

Iran contemplates allowing Europe to clear mines in Strait of Hormuz for normal shipping: Report

US secretary of state Marco Rubio ⁠on Tuesday said ​that Iran ⁠and Oman have made progress ​on ‌getting ‌more ships through ‌the strait of Hormuz but no final agreement has been ‌reached.&nbsp;“There’s been progress made ​in those talks, but not finality yet. ⁠We’re hoping that ​will happen ​very ​shortly,” Rubio ​told reporters ‌at ​the ​State Department.&nbsp;He claimed that some commercial vessels have managed to transit the Strait, though there were efforts to block their passage.&nbsp;"There's a conversation and a negotiation that we are involved in between Oman and Iran on how more ships can be able to go through there safely in the short term," said Rubio.&nbsp;Earlier Tuesday, &nbsp;Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said there is a possibility that US could announce a deal with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz “today or tomorrow".&nbsp;Speaking to CBS Bessent said, "There is a chance we may have a deal today or tomorrow to open the strait and move towards a more normalized position in this conflict."&nbsp;And when asked whether Iran would be allowed to charge a toll, Bessent said “It would be freedom of movement".&nbsp;<h2>Oil prices plunge</h2>&nbsp;As soon as Bessent and Rubio made the announcement oil prices tumbled. The main US oil contract, West Texas Intermediate, dropped five percent to $76.32 a barrel, while the cost of a barrel of brent crude, the global benchmark for oil prices, slid back below $80 a barrel.&nbsp;This was the biggest drop for both contracts since 13 July.&nbsp;

US secretary of state Marco Rubio claimed that some commercial vessels have managed to transit the Strait, though there were efforts to block their passage.

US secretary of state Marco Rubio ⁠on Tuesday said that Iran ⁠and Oman have made progress on ‌getting ‌more ships through ‌the strait of Hormuz but no final agreement has been ‌reached. “There’s been progress made in those talks, but not finality yet. ⁠We’re hoping that will happen very shortly,” Rubio told reporters ‌at the State Department. He claimed that some commercial vessels have managed to transit the Strait, though there were efforts to block their passage. "There's a conversation and a negotiation that we are involved in between Oman and Iran on how more ships can be able to go through there safely in the short term," said Rubio. Earlier Tuesday, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said there is a possibility that US could announce a deal with Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz “today or tomorrow". Speaking to CBS Bessent said, "There is a chance we may have a deal today or tomorrow to open the strait and move towards a more normalized position in this conflict." And when asked whether Iran would be allowed to charge a toll, Bessent said “It would be freedom of movement". Oil prices plunge As soon as Bessent and Rubio made the announcement oil prices tumbled. The main US oil contract, West Texas Intermediate, dropped five percent to $76.32 a barrel, while the cost of a barrel of brent crude, the global benchmark for oil prices, slid back below $80 a barrel. This was the biggest drop for both contracts since 13 July.

US secretary of state Marco Rubio claimed that some commercial vessels have managed to transit the Strait, though there were efforts to block their passage.

Progress made ​in talks for reopening Hormuz, says Rubio; oil prices plunge

British maritime agency UKMTO said that an "unknown projectile" struck a cargo vessel in the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Oman. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Centre reported that it occurred at 2 a.m. local time, 37 kilometres (23 miles) northeast of Al Khasab in Oman. The report of an attack on a cargo vessel was made as both the US and Iran made conflicting claims about holding talks. The vessel has been identified as Liberian-flagged MV Minoan Pioneer. It reportedly caused a complete blackout on the ship.&nbsp;"The ⁠projectile reportedly struck the engine room, while a fire broke out ‌in the accommodation area. The crew are fighting the fire and require assistance, while the third engineer ‌is reported missing," Reuters reported, quoting British maritime risk management group Vanguard as saying separately.CBS News reported that the vessel was owned by a Greek Maritime firm, Modion Maritime Management SA. It was coming from Sohar in Oman and broadcasting that it was heading to Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates, a short journey up the coast. On Sunday, it turned off its transponder, which allows it to be tracked. There is no detail about the projectile that struck the vessel.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/air-india-phuket-delhi-flight-drops-300-feet-turbulence-14-injured-1785840678702">Air India Phuket-Delhi flight drops 300 feet mid-air, 14 injured</a>The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively closed since mid-July 2026 after a brief June ceasefire completely collapsed. The town of Al Khasab sits at the tip of Hormuz, closed to the southern corridor, which lies in Oman's territorial waters.Trump said on Monday that talks have resumed despite denial from Iran. Whether “Iran wants to admit it or not, we are, in fact, talking,” Trump maintained. Trump had earlier threatened to launch a “fireworks” but later stopped following advice from Gulf leaders. Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari said Tuesday that mediation efforts were underway with all parties. “We’re looking into a diplomatic solution,” he said during a briefing. He did not elaborate or mention the conflicting statements from the US and Iran about direct talks. "We can confirm that the efforts are still ongoing with all parties," adding that negotiations were focused on a short-term resolution that would help us reignite the talks and go back to the mediation efforts in its totality."&nbsp;

A cargo vessel was struck by an unknown projectile in the Strait of Hormuz off Oman, causing a fire and blackout as US-Iran tensions and diplomatic efforts continue.

British maritime agency UKMTO said that an "unknown projectile" struck a cargo vessel in the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Oman. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations Centre reported that it occurred at 2 a.m. local time, 37 kilometres (23 miles) northeast of Al Khasab in Oman. The report of an attack on a cargo vessel was made as both the US and Iran made conflicting claims about holding talks. The vessel has been identified as Liberian-flagged MV Minoan Pioneer. It reportedly caused a complete blackout on the ship. "The ⁠projectile reportedly struck the engine room, while a fire broke out ‌in the accommodation area. The crew are fighting the fire and require assistance, while the third engineer ‌is reported missing," Reuters reported, quoting British maritime risk management group Vanguard as saying separately. CBS News reported that the vessel was owned by a Greek Maritime firm, Modion Maritime Management SA. It was coming from Sohar in Oman and broadcasting that it was heading to Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates, a short journey up the coast. On Sunday, it turned off its transponder, which allows it to be tracked. There is no detail about the projectile that struck the vessel. Also Read: Air India Phuket-Delhi flight drops 300 feet mid-air, 14 injured The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively closed since mid-July 2026 after a brief June ceasefire completely collapsed. The town of Al Khasab sits at the tip of Hormuz, closed to the southern corridor, which lies in Oman's territorial waters. Trump said on Monday that talks have resumed despite denial from Iran. Whether “Iran wants to admit it or not, we are, in fact, talking,” Trump maintained. Trump had earlier threatened to launch a “fireworks” but later stopped following advice from Gulf leaders. Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari said Tuesday that mediation efforts were underway with all parties. “We’re looking into a diplomatic solution,” he said during a briefing. He did not elaborate or mention the conflicting statements from the US and Iran about direct talks. "We can confirm that the efforts are still ongoing with all parties," adding that negotiations were focused on a short-term resolution that would help us reignite the talks and go back to the mediation efforts in its totality."

A cargo vessel was struck by an unknown projectile in the Strait of Hormuz off Oman, causing a fire and blackout as US-Iran tensions and diplomatic efforts continue.

Cargo vessel hit by 'unknown projectile' in Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Oman

Iran on Monday (August 3) said it is not holding any negotiations with the United States and is instead working with Oman to establish a temporary shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz to ensure safe navigation in the strategic waterway. Speaking at a weekly press briefing, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran's ongoing discussions with Muscat are focused on creating an interim navigation corridor for vessels passing through the strait.&nbsp;"Our current discussions with Oman are focused on ensuring the safe passage of ships in the Strait of Hormuz," Baghaei said, according to Iran's semi-official Fars news agency. He said Iran and Oman were working to establish "a temporary route" as soon as possible to safeguard maritime traffic through the strait. According to Baghaei, the proposed arrangement would merge the southern route through Omani waters and the northern route through Iranian territorial waters into a single two-way transit corridor that reflects the interests of both coastal states.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-re-looking-for-creative-and-unconventional-ways-to-punish-iran-us-officer-s-alleged-email-to-troops-amid-nuke-talks-with-tehran-1785744006496">‘We’re looking for creative and unconventional ways to punish Iran’: US officer’s alleged email to troops amid nuke talks with Tehran</a>&nbsp;"The current discussions are about a two-way corridor, not two or three separate routes," he said, adding that the temporary arrangement would remain in place until a permanent alternative is agreed. Baghaei also rejected claims that Tehran was negotiating with Washington, saying, "We are not having negotiations with the United States."&nbsp;His remarks came a day after US President Donald Trump said talks with Iran would begin on Monday afternoon and expressed optimism that an agreement on the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's "denuclearisation" could be reached.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-kind-of-madness-iran-vows-to-target-israeli-and-us-energy-infrastructure-if-attacked-as-trump-weighs-fresh-strikes-1785537054828">'A kind of madness': Iran vows to target Israeli and US energy infrastructure if attacked as Trump weighs fresh strikes</a>&nbsp;Baghaei, however, said any understanding with Oman alone would not be enough to fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He said the situation in the waterway would remain unchanged as long as the United States continued what he described as its "aggression" and blockade.&nbsp;"As long as US aggression continues, the situation will stay the same," he said, adding that reaching an agreement with Oman was not sufficient to restore normal navigation through the strait.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Iran denied holding negotiations with the United States, clarifying that it is instead collaborating with Oman to create a temporary, two-way transit corridor in the Strait of Hormuz to ensure safe navigation.  

Iran on Monday (August 3) said it is not holding any negotiations with the United States and is instead working with Oman to establish a temporary shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz to ensure safe navigation in the strategic waterway. Speaking at a weekly press briefing, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran's ongoing discussions with Muscat are focused on creating an interim navigation corridor for vessels passing through the strait. "Our current discussions with Oman are focused on ensuring the safe passage of ships in the Strait of Hormuz," Baghaei said, according to Iran's semi-official Fars news agency. He said Iran and Oman were working to establish "a temporary route" as soon as possible to safeguard maritime traffic through the strait. According to Baghaei, the proposed arrangement would merge the southern route through Omani waters and the northern route through Iranian territorial waters into a single two-way transit corridor that reflects the interests of both coastal states. Also read: ‘We’re looking for creative and unconventional ways to punish Iran’: US officer’s alleged email to troops amid nuke talks with Tehran "The current discussions are about a two-way corridor, not two or three separate routes," he said, adding that the temporary arrangement would remain in place until a permanent alternative is agreed. Baghaei also rejected claims that Tehran was negotiating with Washington, saying, "We are not having negotiations with the United States." His remarks came a day after US President Donald Trump said talks with Iran would begin on Monday afternoon and expressed optimism that an agreement on the Strait of Hormuz and Iran's "denuclearisation" could be reached. Also read: 'A kind of madness': Iran vows to target Israeli and US energy infrastructure if attacked as Trump weighs fresh strikes Baghaei, however, said any understanding with Oman alone would not be enough to fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz. He said the situation in the waterway would remain unchanged as long as the United States continued what he described as its "aggression" and blockade. "As long as US aggression continues, the situation will stay the same," he said, adding that reaching an agreement with Oman was not sufficient to restore normal navigation through the strait.

Iran denied holding negotiations with the United States, clarifying that it is instead collaborating with Oman to create a temporary, two-way transit corridor in the Strait of Hormuz to ensure safe navigation. &nbsp;

‘We are not having negotiations with US’: Iran denies Trump’s claim, says working with Oman on temporary Hormuz shipping route

A day after President Donald Trump called off a major attack on Iran saying the Islamic Republic had agreed to open the Strait of Hormuz, reports said the deal being mediated will revive the memorandum of understanding signed by the two countries last month and ensure that the strait remains open for 60 days without fees.&nbsp;The deal would renew the ceasefire between the two sides and ensure that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for 60 days without fees, reported Channel 12 on Sunday, citing sources aware of the details.&nbsp;The Iranian state media also said that negotiations between Iran and Oman over a mutual mechanism to govern the strait were in their final stages but did not share further details.&nbsp;The US-Iran memorandum obligated Iran to fully open the strait “for 60 days only,” and did not impose restrictions after that.It collapsed amid competing claims over Hormuz, with US President Donald Trump insisting the strait would be open, while Tehran claimed the deal allowed it to control the key waterway.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-admin-creating-incubators-to-develop-tech-to-counter-drone-terror-attacks-1785695702777">Trump admin creating ‘incubators’ to develop tech to counter drone terror attacks</a>&nbsp;According to the Channel 12 report, Israel was to be part of the attack, the planning for which began a day after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with Trump at the White House.&nbsp;The US Central Command prepared an attack plan on Iranian energy infrastructure. “Israel was supposed to be part of the plan,” a US official told Channel 12.Israel told the US that if the attack did not significantly damage Iranian economic and regime targets, there would be no point in carrying it out.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/madrasas-shouldn-t-exist-they-produce-jihadists-taslima-nasreen-wants-bangladesh-to-be-secular-nation-1785687296945">‘Madrasas shouldn’t exist, they produce jihadists’: Taslima Nasreen wants Bangladesh to be secular nation</a><h2>Qataris told Trump Iran agreed to open Hormuz</h2>&nbsp;Qatar engaged in intensive talks with Iran, the US, and Oman to try to head off the attack and open up the Strait of Hormuz.&nbsp;Besides, Qatari officials told Trump on Saturday that they needed another day to reach a solution with Iran. Later in the day, Qatar told Trump that Iran had agreed to a proposal to open the Strait.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed Bin Salman called Trump to urge him not to strike and managed to sway him. Trump then posted on Truth Social that he was calling off the attack and that Iran had agreed to open the strait and end its nuclear programme. Though Tehran denied the claims on Hormuz, no strikes were reported from either side overnight into Sunday after the announcement.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-eroded-india-s-faith-bit-by-bit-indian-envoy-defends-putting-indus-waters-treaty-in-abeyance-1785679387240">‘Pakistan eroded India's faith bit by bit’: Indian envoy defends putting Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance</a><h2>UAE pushed Trump for action, said IRGC won’t budge: WSJ report</h2>&nbsp;The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday that, while Saudi Arabia had pushed Trump to refrain from a major attack on Iran over the weekend, the United Arab Emirates had lobbied him to take more decisive action.&nbsp;The report, citing senior Gulf officials familiar with the discussion, said the UAE argued that the IRGC would not budge on its demands without an escalation by the US, including Washington taking control of the Strait of Hormuz and possibly launching a ground incursion.The UAE carried out its own strikes against Iran and it also hosted Israeli air defence troops on its soil to help counter Iranian attacks.

Qatari officials told President Donald Trump late Saturday that Iran had agreed to a proposal to open the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed Bin Salman called Trump to urge him not to strike and managed to sway him

A day after President Donald Trump called off a major attack on Iran saying the Islamic Republic had agreed to open the Strait of Hormuz, reports said the deal being mediated will revive the memorandum of understanding signed by the two countries last month and ensure that the strait remains open for 60 days without fees. The deal would renew the ceasefire between the two sides and ensure that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for 60 days without fees, reported Channel 12 on Sunday, citing sources aware of the details. The Iranian state media also said that negotiations between Iran and Oman over a mutual mechanism to govern the strait were in their final stages but did not share further details. The US-Iran memorandum obligated Iran to fully open the strait “for 60 days only,” and did not impose restrictions after that. It collapsed amid competing claims over Hormuz, with US President Donald Trump insisting the strait would be open, while Tehran claimed the deal allowed it to control the key waterway. Also Read: Trump admin creating ‘incubators’ to develop tech to counter drone terror attacks According to the Channel 12 report, Israel was to be part of the attack, the planning for which began a day after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with Trump at the White House. The US Central Command prepared an attack plan on Iranian energy infrastructure. “Israel was supposed to be part of the plan,” a US official told Channel 12. Israel told the US that if the attack did not significantly damage Iranian economic and regime targets, there would be no point in carrying it out. Also Read: ‘Madrasas shouldn’t exist, they produce jihadists’: Taslima Nasreen wants Bangladesh to be secular nation Qataris told Trump Iran agreed to open Hormuz Qatar engaged in intensive talks with Iran, the US, and Oman to try to head off the attack and open up the Strait of Hormuz. Besides, Qatari officials told Trump on Saturday that they needed another day to reach a solution with Iran. Later in the day, Qatar told Trump that Iran had agreed to a proposal to open the Strait. Meanwhile, Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed Bin Salman called Trump to urge him not to strike and managed to sway him. Trump then posted on Truth Social that he was calling off the attack and that Iran had agreed to open the strait and end its nuclear programme. Though Tehran denied the claims on Hormuz, no strikes were reported from either side overnight into Sunday after the announcement. Also Read: ‘Pakistan eroded India's faith bit by bit’: Indian envoy defends putting Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance UAE pushed Trump for action, said IRGC won’t budge: WSJ report The Wall Street Journal reported on Sunday that, while Saudi Arabia had pushed Trump to refrain from a major attack on Iran over the weekend, the United Arab Emirates had lobbied him to take more decisive action. The report, citing senior Gulf officials familiar with the discussion, said the UAE argued that the IRGC would not budge on its demands without an escalation by the US, including Washington taking control of the Strait of Hormuz and possibly launching a ground incursion. The UAE carried out its own strikes against Iran and it also hosted Israeli air defence troops on its soil to help counter Iranian attacks.

Qatari officials told President Donald Trump late Saturday that Iran had agreed to a proposal to open the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, Saudi Crown Prince Mohamed Bin Salman called Trump to urge him not to strike and managed to sway him

Deal being worked out to revive US-Iran MoU, open Hormuz for 60 days without fees: Report

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