Iran pushes back on Trump’s Hormuz remarks amid stalled nuclear talks

Tehran firmly rejected Washington’s assertion that the U…

Tehran firmly rejected Washington’s assertion that the United States would take control of the Strait of Hormuz, insisting the vital waterway will remain open only if the US shifts its policies and alters its conduct toward Iran. The sharp exchange comes as international oil markets show renewed volatility, with prices climbing on fears of supply disruption in the Gulf.

In an official statement, Iranian officials said that the strait—through which roughly a fifth of global oil passes—would not be weaponized as leverage unless necessary, but warned that any continued ‘hostile behavior’ from the US would leave Tehran with few options. The remarks were the latest salvo in a tense back-and-forth over the future of the 2015 nuclear deal, which has been on life support since Washington’s unilateral withdrawal in 2018.

US President Donald Trump had earlier claimed that American forces could ‘have it under control in 30 minutes’ if needed, a statement that drew swift criticism inside Iran and among regional analysts. While Trump’s words were seen as rhetorical posturing, they have intensified speculation about a possible military confrontation, especially as negotiators remain deadlocked over uranium enrichment and sanctions relief.

Behind the scenes, diplomatic channels appear to be

Behind the scenes, diplomatic channels appear to be buzzing. Reports from regional capitals suggest that Omani and Qatari mediators are shuttling between Tehran and Washington, trying to bridge gaps over the scope of inspections and the pace of sanction rollbacks. However, Iranian negotiators have said repeatedly that they will not return to the table unless the US provides credible guarantees that no future administration can unilaterally abandon a new accord.

The standoff is having immediate economic consequences. Benchmark crude prices have edged upward in recent sessions, and shipping insurers are already hiking premiums for tankers passing through the strait. Analysts warn that a sustained escalation could push oil above $100 a barrel, dealing a fresh blow to the global economy already grappling with inflation and slower growth.

For now, both sides seem intent on maintaining maximum pressure—rhetorically and economically—while leaving the door slightly ajar for a diplomatic breakthrough. But with elections looming in both countries and hardliners gaining influence, the window for compromise is narrowing. The next few weeks will be critical to determine whether Hormuz becomes a bargaining chip or a flashpoint for a wider conflict.