America Working on Diplomatic, Economic, and Military Options
In an interview with Fox News, J.D. Vance stated that the US is working on various levels, including diplomatic, economic, and military, to reach a better outcome. He also reported some progress in the ongoing negotiations with Iran.
According to Vance, the US wants oil and gas supplies from the Gulf region to return to the same levels as before the conflict began. He added that Iran has also expressed its commitment to doing so. However, the US will not rely solely on statements and will also monitor Iran’s actions.
Preparations for a Safe Traffic System in Hormuz
J.D. Vance stated that work is underway to develop a traffic system to ensure the safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. This process will also include de-mining the seaway.
Iran Sets Conditions Before Opening the Strait
Iran stated on Saturday that it is close to reaching an agreement with Oman to create a new route for maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. Despite this, Iran has set several conditions for the full reopening of the Strait.
According to Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, the Strait of Hormuz will not be opened until the US changes its behavior.
Iran’s 9 Key Demands for the US
Iran has set nine conditions for the opening of the Strait of Hormuz:
The US must completely stop making threatening and insulting statements.
The US war against Iran and its allies must permanently end.
The naval blockade of Iranian ports should be lifted and US troops should be withdrawn.
Iran should be compensated with $300 billion for war damages.
All US-imposed sanctions should be lifted.
Iran’s assets held abroad should be released without any conditions.
Iran should be granted the right to impose a maximum 7 percent tariff on cargo ships.
American and Israeli ships should be banned.
Ships violating these conditions should be given the right to impose a 20 percent tariff.
“The US should not threaten Iran again.”
Iran’s state broadcaster aired a statement from Mohammad Bagher Zoldagher, Secretary of the National Security Council, urging the US not to threaten Iran again. It also demanded a permanent end to the war against Iran and its armed allies in the region. Negotiations on a Temporary Seaway Progress
According to Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, discussions on establishing a temporary seaway for ships entering and leaving the Persian Gulf have progressed significantly.
However, he clarified that agreement on this arrangement would not mean the immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Consequently, the relief to energy supplies could be limited.
Oman Appeals for Restraint
Oman’s Foreign Ministry stated on Saturday that negotiations on the movement of ships through the Strait of Hormuz are progressing in a positive and constructive atmosphere. Oman has urged all parties to refrain from any action that could undermine the progress made so far.
Miss Attack on ADNOC Ship
Meanwhile, according to the United Arab Emirates’ official news agency, WAM, a ship belonging to the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) transiting the Strait of Hormuz was targeted by missiles early Saturday.
No one was reported injured in the attack, and the situation has been brought under control. According to the agency, three other ships of the company were also targeted this week.
