Rubio: Diplomacy First, Trump Demands 'Great' Iran Deal
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- Marco Rubio said the United States will keep giving diplomacy a chance before exploring “alternatives,” after Trump warned not to rush any deal.
- Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that any agreement must be “great and meaningful,” and that the U.S. blockade of Iranian ships in the Strait of Hormuz will stay in force until a certified deal is signed.
- Esmaeil Baghaei told a weekly briefing that a conclusion has been reached on many topics, but the parties are not “close to signing” a final agreement.
- Draft MOU contains 14 points, includes a 60‑day nuclear negotiation window after a framework is agreed, and proposes no tolls for Strait passage but charges for navigation and environmental services under a protocol with Oman.
- Oil prices fell more than 4% to a two‑week low as markets reacted to signs that the United States and Iran are moving closer to a deal on the Strait of Hormuz.
Why it matters: Oil shippers gain relief as prices drop over 4% while the U.S. keeps its Hormuz blockade, pressuring Iran to accept navigation fees and prolonging regional energy volatility.
