New York, August 4: U.S. President Donald Trump has warned Iran that it has one last chance before facing severe consequences. However, he stated that discussions are ongoing regarding the opening of the Hormuz Strait. Trump claimed that an agreement could be reached within a day.
In a statement from the Oval Office on Monday, he said, “They will make a deal quickly, no matter what. It’s not very complicated. We are talking about the Strait, about opening it, literally keeping it open by tomorrow.”
Despite Trump’s assertions, Iran has denied any negotiations with the U.S. Amid these conflicting claims, the status of free transit for ships through the Hormuz Strait remains uncertain.
During a press briefing in Tehran, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismail Baghaei stated, “At this time, we are not in talks with the United States.” He noted that all negotiators from Iran, except for Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, were present in the country. However, Trump dismissed Baghaei’s claim, stating on Truth Social, “The Iranian leadership is incredibly two-faced. After begging for a meeting, they openly and proudly say they are not negotiating.”
Baghaei mentioned that Iran is consulting with Oman. According to the Iranian news agency Tasnim, the aim is to establish a temporary arrangement to ensure maritime security in the Strait. He added that no other countries are involved in the Muscat-Tehran talks.
Meanwhile, President Trump revealed that he halted a major bombing campaign planned for Sunday after several countries, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, requested him to refrain from the pre-scheduled attacks.
On Sunday, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman spoke with Trump. According to the Saudi Press Agency, he emphasized the need to prioritize dialogue to reduce tensions and highlighted the importance of efforts towards a ceasefire to pave the way for a diplomatic solution.
Trump stated that news of the planned attacks had frightened Iran, claiming it would have been the largest strike since World War II. He noted that Iran was pleading to talk, saying they wanted to discuss the Strait.
An agreement to open the Strait was signed by Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pajeshkian on June 17. However, the deal fell apart just weeks later after Iran attacked ships in the Strait and blocked U.S. access to Iranian ports.
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