US President Donald Trump said on Monday that talks with Iran were taking place “right now”, despite a firm denial from Iranian officials earlier in the day.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said the discussions were taking place at Iran’s request and with the support of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar.
“This is the last chance the Iranians have to sign a good document,” he said, adding that the talks could lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, possibly as early as Tuesday.
Iran rejects Trump’s claims
Earlier, Trump criticised what he described as “incredible duplicity” by Iranian leaders in a post on Truth Social, claiming Tehran had requested a meeting before publicly denying any discussions.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei rejected the US president’s claims during a weekly briefing.
“We are not negotiating with the United States at this time. We are negotiating with Oman to guarantee safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.
Strait of Hormuz remains tense
The dispute comes as tensions remain high around the strategic waterway, which is vital for global energy shipments.
Iran has restricted shipping routes through the strait, allowing vessels to pass only along its coastline, while seeking to maintain control over the passage.
Oman has not publicly confirmed or denied reports of a possible agreement on a new route through the waterway.
Meanwhile, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported overnight that an unidentified projectile struck a cargo vessel while it was travelling through the Strait of Hormuz. No injuries or damage were reported.
Oil prices rise after uncertainty
Oil prices edged higher after a sharp decline linked to hopes of renewed US-Iran diplomacy.
The price of US crude WTI rose 0.49% to $80.73 per barrel, while Brent crude increased 0.60% to $82.47.
Brent had exceeded $100 per barrel at the end of July amid concerns over escalating tensions in the region.
Conflict continues across region
Trump had previously threatened major strikes against Iran before announcing a delay to planned large-scale attacks, reportedly including strikes on energy infrastructure.
He said the decision was influenced by requests from regional countries and claimed there was a framework for a possible agreement.
Iran rejected this account, calling it another “lie” by the US president.
The conflict has also expanded into the Red Sea, where Yemen’s Houthi movement, which is aligned with Iran, has announced actions targeting Saudi ports and oil-related shipping.
Also read: Trump says Iran talks set to resume on Monday
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