Iran Denies U.S. Talks, Says Working With Oman on Temporary Hormuz Shipping Route

Iran stated Monday it is not negotiating with the United States but is collaborating with Oman to create a temporary shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz. The goal is to guarantee the safe passage of vessels, according to Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei. He told the semi-official Fars news agency that discussions with Muscat are focused on securing maritime navigation through the vital waterway. Baqaei rejected reports of direct talks with Washington, asserting, "We are not having negotiations with the United States." His comments followed U.S. President Donald Trump's statement Sunday about impending talks with Iran, expressing optimism for an agreement on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and addressing Iran's nuclear program. Baqaei further cautioned that the situation in the Strait of Hormuz would remain unchanged unless the U.S. ceased its "acts of aggression and its blockade." The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route for oil shipments, has been a focal point of escalating tensions between Iran and the United States.

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Our current discussions with Oman are focused on ensuring the safe passage of ships in the Strait of Hormuz.