Trump says he is highly unlikely to order Iran strikes if talks progress
SPY•Donald Trump said he was highly unlikely to order fresh attacks on Iran if talks progress, while warning that the US has identified potential infrastructure targets. Both countries reported vessel incidents in or near the Strait of Hormuz, where shipping disruptions are restricting energy and other commodity exports.
1. Trump weighs further strikes
Trump said on Sunday that renewed attacks on Iran were “highly unlikely” to be necessary if talks progress, depending on whether Iran signs a “very strong agreement.” He said the US had identified potential infrastructure targets, including 38 bridges, if strikes resume. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he did not believe a diplomatic breakthrough was imminent and described Iran’s demands as unacceptable and unrealistic.
2. Vessel incidents reported
Iran said two oil tankers hit mines while attempting to pass through an unauthorized route in the Strait of Hormuz, and a third tanker caught fire after an explosion, Iranian media reported. The US military said it had disabled a commercial vessel in the Gulf of Oman as it tried to get through the blockade. Reuters was unable to confirm the reported strikes.
3. Conflict and diplomacy
The US and Iran have continued strikes on vessels in and near the strait, restricting exports of energy and other commodities vital to the world economy. Qatar said both sides were continuing to work toward an agreement; an Iranian official said Tehran had submitted a nuclear proposal to Washington through Qatar, with discussions dependent on the US first meeting Iran’s demands.
