US says no need for new attacks but calls Iran's peace terms 'absurd'

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the United States is content with maintaining the current situation, as economic pressure has proven effective. Vessels are present at the Strait of Hormuz, located off the coast of Oman, on October 19, 2026. Despite downplaying the possibility of additional attacks on Iran, the US is dismissing Iran's conditions for a political settlement as "absurd".

President Donald Trump declared the war "effectively over" following a meeting with Qatar's prime minister at the White House, expressing optimism for ending the conflict. However, Iran's former IRGC commander, Mohsen Rezaei, categorically denied any ongoing negotiations with the US and reiterated Iran's seven-point proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran reported two oil tankers catching fire due to mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Rezaei expressed that Iran's response to the US' initial offer was unsatisfactory and awaited a clear reply. Rubio, in turn, dismissed Iran's demands, suggesting Iran should compensate for their role in regional instability and that substantial compensation would not be granted.

The US and Iran are in conflict over Iran's nuclear program and control of the Strait of Hormuz. While Iran has been striking vessels linked to US Gulf allies, the US provides military escorts for their passage, a costly and time-consuming process. Although oil prices have plummeted due to Democratic gains in Congress, Gulf partners remain cautious about investing due to sporadic strikes and an ongoing war without a resolution.