US President Donald Trump has rejected an extension of the 60-day memorandum of understanding with Iran, deepening uncertainty over efforts to end the ongoing conflict.
The decision comes as tensions continue to rise over the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
Trump has claimed that the United States has “total control” of the Strait of Hormuz and has threatened to declare the waterway US territory.
Iran has strongly rejected the claim, while officials in Tehran continue to insist that the strait remains under Iranian control.
Diplomatic efforts have also faced fresh obstacles. Qatar said mediators are waiting for Iran and Oman to reach an agreement on transit through the Strait of Hormuz before efforts to resume broader negotiations between Washington and Tehran can move forward.
Iran, meanwhile, says alleged US violations have made the original 60-day deadline for talks irrelevant.The standoff has raised further concerns about maritime security and international trade, particularly because the Strait of Hormuz is a major route for global energy shipments.
The reported damage to a vessel and a crew casualty after an unknown projectile struck the ship has added to fears that the diplomatic deadlock could lead to renewed instability in the region.