President Donald Trump announced that the United States is adopting a more "low-key" approach in its conflict with Iran, signaling a potential shift away from military actions and towards intensified economic pressure. Trump stated in an interview that the U.S. is "only semi-negotiating" and is closely monitoring Iran's economic situation.
"We are just watching Iran with its huge inflation and the fact they have no money," Trump said, asserting that Iran is in "very bad shape." He described the situation as a "chess game" that will ultimately resolve itself. This strategic pivot was revealed as details emerged regarding a potential deal between Iran and Oman concerning the management of the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global oil transport, has been largely inaccessible for much of the current conflict. An agreement that would have granted Iran partial control over traffic in the strait was reportedly nearing completion until Tehran issued a list of demands on Saturday. Iran's Supreme National Security Council stated that the strait would not reopen until the U.S. "corrects its behavior." The demands included the U.S. ceasing threats against Iran, a permanent end to the conflict and its allied actions, the lifting of the naval blockade on Iranian ports, and the withdrawal of American military forces from the region. Furthermore, Iran demanded full compensation for war damages, the lifting of sanctions, and the unconditional release of frozen assets.
Trump did not directly address these demands, and his comments were echoed by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who confirmed that no direct negotiations are currently underway between Washington and Tehran. A 60-day period intended for negotiating a final deal is set to conclude shortly, though it is subject to extension.
In separate but related developments, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a deal proposed by Trump for Gaza last month. Netanyahu stated that Israel's military would not withdraw until Hamas is disarmed. He informed his Cabinet that Israel rejected the "15-point document" but continues to discuss plans for Gaza with Washington. Trump had previously indicated that Israeli forces would withdraw as Hamas completed its disarmament. Hamas, however, remains committed to the roadmap, with a political bureau member expecting mediators and the U.S. to pressure Netanyahu.
Meanwhile, Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen conducted attacks on the government-held port city of Mocha late Sunday night, marking the second assault on the Red Sea coastal city in less than 24 hours. A military source reported that the attack targeted weapons depots and Saudi troop concentrations. The Yemeni Armed Forces stated that residential areas were also targeted by ballistic missiles and drones, some of which were intercepted. The National Resistance Forces, allied with the Yemeni government, reported that seven people, including four troops and three civilians, were killed, and 15 civilians were injured in the strike. The attack reportedly caused significant damage to port buildings, piers, and stored goods and food supplies.