A cargo vessel reported being struck by an unidentified projectile near the Strait of Hormuz, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations Center. The incident occurred around 2 a.m. local time, approximately 37 kilometers northeast of Al Khasab in Oman.
The UKMTO did not disclose details about the ship's nationality or cargo. The Strait of Hormuz remains a strategic chokepoint through which about 20% of the world’s oil and gas supplies transit, although it has been largely closed due to ongoing regional conflict and blockades.
Disparate Claims on Negotiations Between US and Iran
US President Donald Trump announced that talks with Iran have resumed, aiming to de-escalate the conflict and restore shipping through the strait. He credited Gulf allies, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, for urging restraint following his earlier threats of major strikes against Iran.
Contrastingly, Iranian officials deny direct negotiations with the United States, stating discussions are limited to Oman and concern only safe navigation routes in the Strait of Hormuz.
Expressing frustration on his social media platform, Trump accused Iran of duplicity, highlighting their public denial of talks despite reportedly requesting meetings and scheduling further discussions.
