US Officials Vow Pressure on Iran Over Strait of Hormuz Blockade; Talks Stall

Bessent described leaders of Iran's Revolutionary Guards as trapped amid the blockade. This comes as negotiations over the Strait of Hormuz remain deadlocked. Iran has presented a new proposal to regional mediators to halt its attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz.

The offer includes ending the war, lifting the US naval blockade of Iranian ports, and postponing nuclear negotiations. Officials familiar with the matter said the proposal aims to break the deadlock and restart talks.

Trump expressed skepticism about Iran's offer, stating that negotiations could occur over the phone rather than in person. He emphasized that Iran must end nuclear enrichment and vow never to develop a nuclear weapon. US officials indicated Trump did not reject the proposal outright but questioned Iran's good faith.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the US will not tolerate Iran controlling or establishing a toll system in the Strait of Hormuz. Rubio asserted the strait would remain open through international pressure or a coalition effort. He added that the US will not normalize Iran acting as a gatekeeper for maritime traffic.

“We will not tolerate a system where Iran plays gatekeeper to the world.”

Bessent also told The Wall Street Journal that companies cooperating with Iran's airlines will be exposed to sanctions. He further announced that the Treasury will impose maximum pressure on Iran.

and Regional Developments Russian President

Vladimir Putin met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Moscow. Putin stated he received a message from Iran's Supreme Leader last week and described Iran as fighting for its sovereignty. He pledged Russia would do everything to serve the interests of Iran and the region to achieve peace.

Araghchi told Putin that US destructive habits, unreasonable demands, and frequent changes in positions are slowing diplomatic progress. He expressed gratitude for Russia's support during difficult times. The meeting occurred amid Iran's tour of the region and Pakistan to present its proposal.

Jared Cohen, co-head of the Goldman Sachs Global Institute, stated that unless Iran's regime collapses, the Strait of Hormuz will never be open as it was before the war.

Israel launched airstrikes against Hezbollah infrastructure in Lebanon's Beqaa Valley and southern areas, marking the first strikes in the Beqaa Valley since a three-week ceasefire began. Hezbollah argues that Israeli forces on Lebanese territory are legitimate targets.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has been sending written messages to the US via Pakistani intermediaries. Trump warned that Iranian oil infrastructure could explode from within unless flow resumes, and Tehran later said Trump requested new talks.

Washington has not yet responded to the proposal, according to one person familiar with the matter.