Iran, US still ‘far’ from breakthrough amid Strait of Hormuz impasse

Key Points:

• Iran and the US have made some progress in negotiations, but significant gaps remain, with Iran's parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf emphasizing they are still far from a final deal as the ceasefire deadline approaches.
• Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian criticized US President Donald Trump for denying Iran its nuclear rights without justification, highlighting nuclear program issues and control over the Strait of Hormuz as major sticking points.
• The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps reimposed restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz in response to a US naval blockade of Iranian ports, using control over this strategic oil transit route as leverage in negotiations.
• US President Trump issued mixed messages, warning that the US might resume military action if no deal is reached by Wednesday but also stating that negotiations are progressing well and officials remain in contact.
• Mediators seek a second round of talks, but Iran demands a framework agreement first, accusing the US of maintaining a maximalist position and continuing pressure through sanctions and military presence.