Rebuffing Trump, Iran insists no talks with US over Hormuz, strait staying closed

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei denied any negotiations with the US, contradicting President Trump's claim that talks would resume. Tehran maintains its position on the Strait of Hormuz, insisting on control and fees, while a tanker reported an explosion near the strait. The US military seeks new pressure tactics.

Iran on Monday denied any negotiations with the United States, following President Trump's claim that talks on ending the war and reopening the Strait of Hormuz were set to resume. Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said no negotiations were taking place and no meetings were scheduled, adding that all Iranian negotiators were in the country except Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who was on a religious pilgrimage in Iraq. Baghaei reiterated Iran's position that as long as a US naval blockade on Iranian ports continues, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz will remain unchanged. He also mentioned ongoing talks with Oman to secure passage through the strait. Meanwhile, a tanker master reported hearing an explosion near the vessel off Oman's coast, with the UKMTO advising caution. The US military is reportedly asking troops for new ideas to pressure Iran, signaling dissatisfaction with conventional tactics. The article also includes a personal appeal from a Times of Israel reporter about covering the war's impact.