Good afternoon Middle East Eye readers,
Here are the latest developments from across the region:
Qatar and US officials have said talks are ongoing between Iran and the US to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, though Tehran has not confirmed this is the case. US President Donald Trump said this was the “last chance” for Iran to come to an agreement “before decapitation”, while Iran said it was “not seeking to expand the war”.
The US treasury secretary said a US-Iran deal could happen “today or tomorrow”, while Marco Rubio said “progress” was made today and a “deal will happen very shortly”, though there is “no finality yet”. Oil prices have fallen amid hopes of a deal concluding soon.
Iran is reportedly in talks with Oman to split control over shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz, with Tehran controlling the inbound route, while Muscat would clear ships for exit after notifying Iran on the outbound route.
Some ships are reportedly passing through the strait, including Iraqi tankers, though one vessel was hit overnight, with its crew having abandoned the burning ship.Β
Lebanon and Israel are holding a new round of direct talks in Rome, as Hezbollah said earlier today negotiations with Israel would bring “shame” and “humiliation” for Lebanon.
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