Iran and Oman have both given positive signals today that an agreement on navigation through the Strait of Hormuz could be in reach, but Tehran has been quick to state that the deal would not result in the key waterway reopening immediately.
Iran’s national security chief insisted that traffic in the strait won’t return to normal unless the US agrees to end the war, withdraw troops and pay Tehran financial compensation, among other long-sought concessions.
And for its part, Oman has also urged caution, saying ongoing attacks on shipping in the strait could derail progress. The United Arab Emirates blamed Tehran for one such attack on an oil tanker early Saturday.
If you’re just joining us, here’s what else to know:
- Iranian state media shared an undated video of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei today, a first since his appointment in March following the assassination of his father. The post provided no detail on the timing of the footage and will likely only fuel speculation over his whereabouts and health. Khamenei has yet to appear publicly since becoming the top political and religious authority in the Islamic Republic.
- Yemeni forces conducted a military operation targeting the Iran-backed Houthi militant group today, according to a statement published by its Defense Ministry. The Houthis are one of several Iranian proxies that have threatened to widen the conflict in the Middle East.
- The military action in Yemen comes after Saudi Arabia signed a NATO-like defense pact with Turkey and Pakistan, aiming to bolster its mutual defense in light of Houthi threats. Iran dismissed the agreement, saying it won’t assure the kingdom’s security.
- Meanwhile, the White House is mulling its options for the next steps in its war with Iran. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs Gen. Dan Caine has privately made clear to other Trump administration advisers that Washington needs to find an off-ramp from the war, according to three sources familiar with the matter.
CNN’s Hanna Ziady, Valey Arya, Eyad Kourdi, Sophie Tanno, Issy Ronald and Julia Benbrook contributed to this reporting.
