US demands Iran publicly pledge to keep Hormuz open as talks resume
The United States is pressuring Iran to issue a public commitment to keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, guaranteeing safe passage and no attacks on ships as a condition for continuing talks. Washington also wants Iran to implicitly acknowledge past mistakes and to hand over “nuclear dust” in any final deal. A Saturday meeting in Oman is targeted for Iran’s response, with officials warning that failure to meet the demand could derail negotiations. Despite Trump’s assertion that the ceasefire is over, U.S. officials say talks can continue, though a long-term deal remains uncertain and leverage is available across military, diplomatic, and economic channels. Iran reportedly aimed to wait until Ayatollah Khamenei’s funeral to resolve major items.
