US and Iran remain at odds over reopening Strait of Hormuz despite diplomatic talks

United States President Donald Trump stated that Oman-mediated negotiations could lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz "very soon," while renewing threats of severe military action if the strategic waterway remains blocked. Despite technical progress on a safe navigation map brokered by Oman, Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaei emphasized that the passage "will not be opened" until Washington lifts oil sanctions, unfreezes assets, and halts military operations.

The standoff comes as maritime traffic through the strait has fallen from 95 to approximately 15 daily crossings over six months of closure. Concurrently, commanders from Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned of "strategic surprises" and vowed not to bow to American pressure as deadlines for a peace agreement approach.

Sources: Diário de Notícias (DN), Expresso, Expresso das Ilhas, Jornal Económico, RTP (Rádio e Televisão de Portugal).