US and Iran exchange warnings over Strait of Hormuz shipping

Tensions persist around the Strait of Hormuz as Washington and Tehran outline conflicting positions on maritime access and negotiations. US President Donald Trump downplayed the urgency of reopening the waterway while suggesting a potential agreement could emerge soon, describing diplomatic efforts as "like a chess game." Trump asserted that no direct talks are planned with Iran, pointing to severe Iranian economic distress as American leverage, while warning of military action if US plans face interference.

Conversely, Iranian officials maintained that the strait will remain restricted until Washington alters its policy, denying direct talks with the US. Tehran is currently holding discussions with Oman to establish secure commercial maritime corridors. Despite Trump's claims that the passage remains functional, weekly vessel transits through the strategic channel declined an additional 20 percent following a recent attack on a ship.

Sources: Avaz, Beta, CDM, Dan, Vijesti.