Hormuz Leverage and Enrichment Clash Stall US-Iran Talks Amid Blockade

ISW/CTP’s Iran Update notes ongoing US-Israeli strikes and a tightening blockade pressuring Iran, while talks stall over Tehran’s enrichment and control of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran’s internal factionalism, with the IRGC playing a large role, complicates a unified negotiating stance. Tehran seeks concessions on maritime access and funds; the US pushes zero enrichment. A 10-day Israel-Lebanon ceasefire adds regional tension, as Hezbollah and Israel exchange attacks before and during the truce. Sanctions and the blockade are squeezing Iran’s economy and its steel/petrochemical exports even as Iran attempts to reconstitute its missile force. There is no clear breakthrough yet, with mixed signals from both sides.