Iran rejects U.S. talks for now as wait for Hormuz deal drags on

The wait for an Iranian deal with Oman over the Strait of Hormuz continued, as Iran's top envoy, Abbas Araghchi, stated that direct talks with the US were not possible for now. Araghchi criticized the US for violating a June interim peace agreement, asserting that Iran would not resume negotiations until the US addressed its violations.

Tehran subsequently raised additional demands for Washington, including lifting the naval blockade, withdrawing military forces, removing sanctions, and releasing frozen assets. The status of Hormuz has become pivotal in the recent US-Iran conflict, with US President Donald Trump urging its reopening and Iran's Supreme Leader, Khamenei, needing to approve any deal.

Meanwhile, tensions persisted in the Red Sea, with Houthi rebels in Yemen claiming to have attacked Saudi oil refineries, causing fires. Saudi authorities reported a fire at an Aramco facility, while the US Vice President suggested progress in negotiations, though the ultimate outcome remains uncertain.