Trump has announced that Iran reached out and is seeking a deal, marking a significant diplomatic development in relations between the United States and Iran. The statement, attributed directly to Trump, indicates that Iran initiated contact as part of an apparent effort to pursue negotiations.

Key Development

The core of Trump's announcement centers on Iran's outreach and its expressed interest in reaching a deal. No additional details regarding the scope, terms, or timeline of any potential negotiations were available in the source data.

The statement represents a notable diplomatic signal, with Iran reportedly taking the initiative to establish contact. Further details on the substance of any potential agreement were not provided in the available information.

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that the Strait of Hormuz will only open under arrangements made by Iran, explicitly rejecting U.S. threats. The declaration follows recent missile strikes exchanged between the U.S. and Iran and accusations that the U.S. violated a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two nations. Ghalibaf warned that any escalation would be met with a reciprocal response, emphasizing that “bullying” and failing to honor commitments are no longer without consequences.

Strait of Hormuz Under Iranian Control

In a post on X on Wednesday, Ghalibaf asserted that the U.S. has not learned that its actions carry costs. “If you strike, you will get hit back,” the Parliament speaker said. He warned against efforts to escalate tensions amid the missile strikes and reiterated that the strategic waterway would only open under Iranian terms, not due to American pressure. Earlier, Ghalibaf accused the U.S. of violating the terms of the MoU signed by both parties, specifically criticizing the U.S. Treasury’s decision to reinstate oil sanctions on Iran.

MoU Violations and Sovereignty

Esmaeil Baghaei, Spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, also criticized the U.S. on Wednesday, stating that the MoU was based on a “commitment for commitment” mechanism rather than trust. Baghaei accused the U.S. of violating point 5 of the MoU, which stipulates that Iran will determine the future administration of the Strait following consultations with Oman and other Gulf states. He affirmed that the Iranian government would protect its national interests and sovereignty.

U.S. Response and Military Action

The U.S. position hardened as Trump declared the ceasefire with Iran “over” during a NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, stating that talks with the Iranian government were a waste of time. The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported conducting additional strikes against Iran to deter its ability to threaten vessel flow in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump warned that further strikes would follow if more vessels were attacked.