US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Tuesday afternoon that progress has been made in talks with Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz, though nothing is final, and he expressed hope a deal would be signed 'very soon.'
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Tuesday afternoon that progress has been made in talks with Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz, though nothing is final, and he expressed hope a deal would be signed 'very soon.' This follows a series of rapid diplomatic signals today. Earlier, the US Treasury Secretary said a deal could be reached as early as Wednesday. The US then confirmed significant progress, with Arab media reporting an Iranian statement expected within hours. Rubio's latest statement reaffirms optimism, though the timeline remains uncertain.
The Zioneer has been tracking this diplomatic track for weeks. On July 20, Rubio said Iran is signaling willingness for negotiations. On July 22, he reiterated that the US remains open to diplomacy but that Iran must show seriousness. Earlier, on June 11, President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu discussed the deal as it entered an 'almost final stage.' On June 14, a senior US official said the Strait of Hormuz would reopen with no tolls under a framework deal. On June 25, Trump characterized the agreement as a historic breakthrough. However, Iran has denied any agreement, with officials calling reports of a deal 'false.'
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. The emerging deal would see Iran allow free passage in exchange for the US lifting its maritime blockade. The talks have also involved mediation efforts, reportedly including Pakistan. As The Zioneer reported, Rubio also discussed the deal with UAE leadership on June 24.
Rubio emphasized that nothing is final. Iran's official position remains one of denial regarding any agreement. The timing of a potential signing is uncertain, and the situation remains fluid.
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