US rules out Iran talks amid rising Strait of Hormuz tensions

United States President Donald Trump announced that Washington has no scheduled diplomatic talks with Iran, reiterating that Tehran must not acquire nuclear weapons. Trump warned of potential military escalation if Iranian or Omani forces interfere with maritime operations in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, following a recent strike on a vessel in the waterway. In response, Iranian officials stated their military will shift to an offensive stance if diplomatic channels fail.

Meanwhile, regional ceasefire efforts remain stalled. Although Hamas indicated acceptance of the second phase of a US-backed peace proposal, Israeli leadership rejected immediate troop withdrawals, insisting that military forces will remain in Gaza until Hamas is fully disarmed.

Sources: Cafe del Montenegro