United States President Donald Trump signaled on Monday (27) that he was unlikely to accept Iran’s latest proposal to end the conflict, after Tehran proposed a plan that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while at the same time postponing discussions on the nuclear issue, according to a source.
However, people familiar with the mediation process said the U.S. and Iran are not as far apart as they may seem.
Meanwhile, in Russia, where Iran’s top diplomat revealed he received a message last week from the new supreme leader, Motjaba Khamenei.
Khamenei has not been seen or heard from since he was announced as his late father’s successor more than six weeks ago, which raises eyebrows.
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Trump’s next steps
It was unclear on Monday (27) what Trump’s next steps would be. could eliminate an important piece of American influence in the negotiations, officials said.
However, allowing the waterway to remain blocked would prolong the high energy prices that have caused the price of gasoline to soar in the United States.
Iranian cargo still transits the Strait of Hormuz
Most of the ships that transited the strait in recent days followed a route designated by Iranian authorities, and about half of them loaded at Iranian ports, according to shipping data.
This poses a challenge to efforts to prevent ships from using Iranian ports.
Energy crisis
Oil prices rose to their highest level in three weeks on Monday, while U.S. gasoline prices rose a penny to $4.11 per gallon.
Iran studies how to proceed
Tehran is reassessing how to advance diplomacy to end the war, its foreign minister said, blaming the slow progress on Washington’s “destructive habits”, including “irrational demands.”
Fragile ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the US during the ceasefire and that the US urged Israel to “ensure that its responses are proportionate and targeted”.
An analysis of satellite images carried out by CNN shows that demolitions have continued in Lebanon since the truce came into effect, with ground operations beginning to take on the appearance of those seen in Gaza.
A truce in Lebanon has been a crucial point in negotiations between Washington and Tehran.
Congratulatory messages from Putin
Putin asked Iranian authorities to “convey to the supreme leader my appreciation for his message and my best wishes for his health and well-being,” according to the Kremlin. He also stated that Russia “will do whatever is necessary to serve its (Iran’s) interests” to ensure peace.
Khamenei’s health status
Rubio said the U.S. “has indications” that Khamenei is still alive, although he said it is unclear how much power the new supreme leader holds.
A source told CNN Last month Khamenei suffered a broken foot, a bruise on his left eye and small cuts on his face in the attacks that killed his father.
USA “humiliated”
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared that the US is , criticizing Washington’s attempts to disengage from the war.
