Omani mediation on Strait of Hormuz stalls over Iranian demands and mixed U.S. signals

Diplomatic efforts mediated by Oman to restore maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz remain stalled as Tehran insists on major American concessions. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi reaffirmed that reopening the vital passage requires sanctions relief, compensation for war damages, and explicit security guarantees.

U.S. President Donald Trump offered contrasting signals regarding the negotiations, stating a resolution could be reached shortly while simultaneously downplaying its urgency and describing the diplomatic situation as "a chess game." American officials acknowledged progress in the Omani-led talks, though Washington warned of severe consequences if traffic remains obstructed.

In concurrent regional developments, approximately 800,000 displaced citizens have begun returning to southern Lebanon as Lebanese and Israeli delegations met in Rome for a seventh round of talks. Off Yemen's coast, an Indian commercial ship was reportedly struck and sunk.

Sources: Avaz, CDM, Dan, Klix, Vijesti