Iran has reaffirmed its control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, dismissing calls for renewed peace talks with the United States, according to reports from Iranian state media. The claim comes as the U.S. and Iran have paused military strikes for the third consecutive day, creating a rare opportunity for diplomatic engagement. This pause follows weeks of intense bombardments that raised fears of a full-scale war, according to regional officials.
The decision to halt strikes was reportedly influenced by President Donald Trump’s willingness to allow space for negotiations, as well as concerns over the safety of shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices dropped on Monday as markets reacted to the temporary ceasefire, with analysts noting the potential for further diplomatic progress. However, tensions remain high, with Iran warning that the U.S. will “pay the price” for the war it created.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is preparing to meet Trump in Washington, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing crisis. Despite the pause, both sides continue to express strong rhetoric, with Iran accusing the U.S. of failing to loosen its grip on the region. The situation remains fragile, with the potential for renewed hostilities still present.
The U.S. and Iran have not reported any attacks for three days, marking a significant shift from the recent escalation. This pause has been welcomed by some as a step toward de-escalation, but the underlying tensions between the two nations remain unresolved.
