Iran threatens to go on offensive in Strait of Hormuz if diplomacy with US fails

Iran has decided to change its strategy from defense to offensive due to the ongoing deadlock in peace talks with the United States, according to a senior Iranian official. The conflict, which began on February 28, has resulted in no progress toward peace talks or resumption of oil tanker traffic through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian official stated that Iranian entities must prepare for potential escalation in the strait and the broader region, adding that Tehran would take action if diplomacy fails.

U.S. President Donald Trump responded to the news by stating that Iran "should put up the white flag of surrender" during a phone interview with Fox News. Trump's threats of escalation contrasted with his previous assertions of an imminent peace deal. The US and Iran were expected to finalize a peace deal under a memorandum of understanding signed in June, which outlined a 60-day window for reaching a broader agreement. However, the deal has faltered due to disagreements over control of the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran accuses the US of consistently violating the terms of the MoU, while the US rejects Iran's interpretation. The US ended its commitment to the pact on July 7, while Iran has been in negotiations with Oman over the management of the strait, with progress being slow. Hostilities have resulted in thousands of casualties, mainly in Iran and Lebanon, with Iran striking US assets and infrastructure in several countries.