Iran appears indifferent to latest Trump talk on negotiations

US President Donald Trump voiced optimism about restarting talks with Iran and reaching a swift deal regarding the Strait of Hormuz at the weekend. However, on Monday, Iran appeared indifferent to these discussions and conveyed no intention of participating. In fact, Tehran seems more focused on a bilateral agreement with Oman concerning the management of the vital waterway.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei explicitly stated that Iran has no negotiations with the United States and that any perceived negotiations are with Oman. Baghaei emphasized that this agreement is solely about establishing a mechanism and future shipping route while preserving both countries' sovereign rights, and it has no bearing on the status of the Strait of Hormuz.

The route would be temporary and serve the interests of both coastal states, rather than being two separate paths - one near Iran and another near Oman. Baghaei acknowledged that whether this stage might lead to a reduction in regional tensions remains to be seen. Tehran also blamed the United States for breaching a Memorandum of Understanding signed in June, which included reinstating a maritime blockade, revoking the authorization for Iranian oil sales, and voiding most of the other commitments under the memorandum.

Consequently, Iran remains unconvinced that any meaningful change will occur in the Strait of Hormuz situation as long as these issues persist. Trump also mentioned during Sunday's remarks that the talks would cover Iran's "de-nuclearization," but Tehran has offered no response on this aspect.