US and Iran remain divided over reopening Strait of Hormuz

US President Donald Trump stated that discussions with Teheran are progressing and predicted the Strait of Hormuz could reopen "very soon," while warning Iran will be hit "very strongly" if no agreement is reached. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also noted positive steps in discussions mediated by Oman.

However, Iranian authorities insisted the strategic waterway will stay closed until Washington lifts port blockades and oil sanctions, unfreezes Iranian assets, and halts military actions. Although Tehran confirmed establishing a safe navigation route with Oman, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps leaders pledged "strategic surprises" for the US as defense doctrines are revised.

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