Trump said he is prepared to rely on economic pressure against Iran
U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Washington is prepared to rely on economic pressure on Iran rather than launch a new military offensive. At the same time, Tehran is linking the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to the United States’ fulfillment of a number of conditions, according to CNBC.
In an interview with Axios, Trump said that the U.S. is conducting only limited negotiations with Tehran and is monitoring the economic situation in Iran, particularly high inflation and a shortage of funds. He also posted a chart on Truth Social showing the decline in the value of the Iranian rial starting in 2025.
A high-ranking Iranian official told MS NOW that Tehran insists on the fulfillment of all conditions which, according to Iran’s position, are stipulated in the memorandum of understanding signed by the countries in June. Among the demands are the payment of compensation to Iran and a cessation of hostilities in Lebanon. According to CNBC, Tehran is also demanding the lifting of the U.S. naval blockade, the withdrawal of American troops from the region, and the unfreezing of Iranian assets.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that negotiations with Oman regarding the determination of transit routes through the strait have reached the final stage. At the same time, he emphasized that such an agreement would not mean the opening of the waterway. Oman confirmed that talks with Tehran are taking place in a positive and constructive atmosphere and called for an end to repeated attacks on ships passing through the strait.
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According to CNBC, Araghchi also stated that it would not be possible to resume negotiations until the U.S.—as Tehran claims—stops violating the June memorandum and makes amends for those violations. At the same time, he noted that mediators continue to seek ways to resume negotiations.
U.S. Central Command reported that as of Sunday, U.S. forces had diverted 55 commercial vessels from Iranian ports, compared to 35 on August 2. According to the report, the U.S. military also disabled two vessels and inspected two others to ensure compliance.
According to Kpler, only eight ship transits through the Strait of Hormuz were confirmed last Friday—33% fewer than the day before. Against this backdrop, Brent crude futures rose 1.1% on Monday to $84.45 per barrel, while WTI futures rose 1% to $78.98.
