Diplomatic window reopens as shadow of Iran war lingers

Diplomatic efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz accelerated on Sunday after US President Donald Trump called off a planned attack on Iran, with Tehran saying negotiations with Oman were nearing completion and mediators outlining a proposal to revive US-Iran talks. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei: "The understanding with Oman over a new transit route has nothing to do with whether the Strait of Hormuz remains open or closed." Baghaei: "The strait was closed because the US reneged on its commitments and imposed a blockade." Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on X: "We must strive to compel the enemy to honor what it signed... This memorandum enhances the security of our country, the region and our allies." Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen: "With or without an agreement, and regardless of any external commitments, if Iran attempts to renew its nuclear program or advance its ballistic missile industries, we will be there. We will take action, and we will strike." The proposal would reopen Hormuz and halt attacks across the region, including attacks by Iranian-backed militias in Iraq. In exchange, Washington would end its naval blockade and allow Tehran to export oil.