Iran and US still far from a deal as Strait of Hormuz stays closed

Iran and the United States are still a long way from resolving their standoff over the Strait of Hormuz, even as both sides report some progress in behind-the-scenes talks. Iran's parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, said Saturday that while discussions have advanced, there's no final agreement in sight. He added that Tehran remains ready for any escalation, underscoring the fragile state of negotiations.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow passage through which about a third of the world's seaborne oil travels, has rattled global markets for weeks. Iran insists the waterway will stay shut until the US lifts economic sanctions that have crippled its economy. That demand remains a major roadblock, with American officials hesitant to offer full relief without concrete security guarantees.

Despite the impasse, there are signs of cautious movement. Ghalibaf's comments suggest Iran is at least engaging in meaningful dialogue, a shift from earlier in the month when officials ruled out talks altogether. Diplomats familiar with the process say indirect negotiations, possibly mediated by regional partners, have helped keep channels open, though major gaps on timing and scope remain.

In Washington, President Donald Trump is framing the situation as a win for his administration's hardline stance. In a recent appearance, he claimed credit for bringing Iran to the table, saying his policies of maximum pressure are finally paying off. Columnist Tiana Lowe Doescher echoed that view, writing that Trump's long-standing approach to Iran has created the conditions for today's talks.

But analysts warn that calling the current situation a breakthrough could be premature. The fact that the strait remains closed-and that Iran is publicly preparing for renewed hostilities-suggests deep distrust still runs high. Any misstep could quickly derail the fragile momentum, especially with hardliners on both sides watching closely.

The longer the strait stays shut, the greater the pressure on global energy supplies. Oil prices have climbed steadily since the closure, and shipping companies are rerouting vessels at great cost. Some nations are tapping emergency reserves, while others are calling for urgent de-escalation to avoid a broader regional crisis.

For now, the focus remains on whether either side is willing to make the first move. Lifting sanctions or reopening the strait could unlock progress, but neither Iran nor the US appears ready to take that step without ironclad assurances. Until then, the world watches and waits, with a vital waterway still at a standstill.