Iran-U.S. Talks Stall; Oman Mediation Emerges

Iran signals a shift to a fully offensive military posture as peace talks stall and fail to progress, threatening to escalate in the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding areas. The United States has ruled out extending the interim cease-fire, while conflicting statements about direct talks are exchanged between President Trump and Iranian officials. Tehran insists the Strait of Hormuz remain closed until Washington meets a package of demands, including lifting the naval blockade, ending oil sanctions, and unfreezing assets. Oman-brokered discussions are identified as a potential path toward reopening and resuming negotiations, though U.S. opposition to parts of any deal remains. Regional tensions persist with reports of strikes on ships and drone activity, with the strait’s status potentially hinging on ongoing diplomacy. Analysts caution that a quick diplomatic breakthrough remains unlikely as both sides hold firm on conditions.