Iran Halts Deal Talks Over US Threats
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Tuesday that talks to finalize a nuclear agreement with the United States will not commence if Washington continues its threats. The statement came after US President Donald Trump threatened to 'finish the job' if a deal is not reached.
'Para 13 of the MoU is clear: negotiations on final deal will not commence if threats continue. Honor your signature,' Araghchi wrote on X, referring to an interim deal signed last month that commits both sides to refrain from the threat or use of force.
Missile Attack in Strait of Hormuz
According to reports, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) fired at least two missiles at commercial ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz late Monday. The Axios news site, citing two US officials, said the US is likely to retaliate with strikes against Iranian targets.
Iran's state broadcaster claimed on X that a Qatari oil tanker 'intended to pass through the Omani route in the Strait of Hormuz with US Navy support but was targeted after ignoring repeated warnings.'
UK Maritime Incident
The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) centre reported that a tanker was hit off the coast of Oman, causing a fire aboard the vessel. The incident occurred 8 nautical miles east of Limah. 'A tanker has reported being hit by an unknown projectile on the port side, causing a fire, whilst travelling southbound,' the agency stated.
Authorities are investigating the incident, and vessels in the area have been advised to exercise caution. No casualties or environmental damage have been reported, according to UKMTO.
