Live updates: Iran IRGC threatens US combat as talks reach critical phase

Key Points:

• President Trump accused Iran of using delay tactics in nuclear negotiations, stating Iran is "negotiating on fumes" amid military and economic setbacks, and warned the U.S. might "finish the job" militarily if diplomacy fails.
• The USS Abraham Lincoln is conducting daily flight operations in the Arabian Sea to support U.S. military missions and deterrence efforts near the Strait of Hormuz, a critical and contested shipping lane.
• Iran claims to have coordinated the passage of 25 ships through the Strait of Hormuz under a new permit and toll system, though independent verification by a shipping intelligence firm suggests lower traffic, highlighting Tehran's increasing control over the waterway.
• Trump emphasized that no country will be allowed to control the Strait of Hormuz and threatened military action if any party attempts to dominate the international waters, underscoring U.S. commitment to keeping the passage open.
• Reports of a draft U.S.-Iran agreement to lift the naval blockade and restore commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz were denied by the White House, which reiterated that any deal must prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.