Trump: US ‘only semi-negotiating’ with Iran, observing impact of economic pressure - report

US President Donald Trump stated on a phone call with Axios that the United States is "only semi-negotiating" with Iran, primarily observing the country's challenges amidst economic pressure. Trump remarked that Washington is "low-keying it" as they monitor Iran's struggle with high inflation and lack of funds. The US blockade of Iranian ports along the Strait of Hormuz has exacerbated Iran's dire situation, as the country is now "in very bad shape."

While active warfare has allowed Tehran to temporarily evade the economic fallout, strikes on hold have forced Iran to confront its financial predicament with limited viable solutions. Trump did not express anger towards Iran over its reluctance to finalize an agreement with Oman aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz, describing the situation as a "chess game" that will ultimately resolve itself.

Iran's Supreme National Security Council head, Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, listed several conditions Iran sought from the US for the Oman-Iran agreement to proceed, including refraining from threatening or insulting Iran, ending all conflicts with Iran's allies, lifting the naval blockade, and releasing frozen Iranian funds.