First Oil Tankers Pass Through Strait of Hormuz in Weeks
A group of oil tankers passed through the strategic Strait of Hormuz on Saturday. It is the first significant movement of ships since the start of the US-Israeli war against Iran seven weeks ago. The convoy was mainly made up of liquefied petroleum gas and oil product tankers, with other vessels following them.
Iran reopened the strait after a US-brokered ten-day ceasefire was agreed between Israel and Lebanon. But Tehran insists that the ships must coordinate navigation with its Revolutionary Guards and will not allow U.S. and Israeli military vessels through the strait.
US President Donald Trump described the development as "pretty good news" and said negotiations with Iran could resume over the weekend. But he also warned that the ceasefire might not be extended if an agreement could not be reached by Wednesday, while the blockade of Iranian ports remains in place.
It is unclear whether the talks will actually take place, as logistical problems have complicated their preparations. In particular, disagreements remain over Iran's nuclear programme, which is a key obstacle to an agreement.