According to a phone interview with Barak Ravid of Channel 12 and Axios, US President Donald Trump stated Sunday that Washington was “low-keying” its approach to Iran and only “semi-negotiating” with the Islamic Republic while it endures severe economic pressure. The remarks indicate that Trump is forgoing an immediate military strike in favor of letting mounting financial strain force Tehran’s hand following weeks of conflict.
Economic Pressure and US Strategy in the Strait of Hormuz
Trump’s comments followed conditions laid out Saturday by Iran regarding the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Before US and Israel operations launched on February 28, the crucial waterway carried approximately one-fifth of global commercial oil shipments. According to Ravid’s report, Trump stated that the administration is simply watching Iran navigate high inflation and a lack of funds. “It will work out. It always works out. It’s like a chess game,” Trump said.
While oil prices spiked above $100 per barrel following the initial closure of Hormuz, Trump noted they have since dropped to roughly $75, reducing the economic burden on US consumers. US officials cited in the report stated that Trump has been convinced to de-escalate, allowing the halt in active fighting to force Iran to confront domestic financial collapse.
Internal Divisions in Tehran Over Negotiations
Behind the scenes, the Iranian government remains divided. Officials cited in the report point to a split between a faction led by President Masoud Pezeshkian, which favors a deal to prevent economic ruin, and a hardline camp led by Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Ahmad Vahidi, which opposes making concessions to Washington.
Both factions claim the backing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. Khamenei has not been seen publicly since reportedly sustaining injuries in the strike that killed his predecessor, Ali Khamenei, at the start of the war. On Sunday, Mojtaba Khamenei’s office claimed he recently met with Pezeshkian at the start of his third year in the presidency to discuss the military situation and economic problems.
Did you know? President Masoud Pezeshkian took office in July 2024 and has openly acknowledged that communication with the current supreme leader is exceptionally difficult due to security arrangements.
Leadership Secrecy and the Search for Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei
Mojtaba Khamenei has remained hidden since assuming the role of supreme leader. To mitigate security risks, he communicates with senior officials through a slow network of intermediaries, according to regional reporting. While state media has published written statements, no audio or video recordings have been released.
On Sunday, Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency cited an IRGC general who stated that images of Khamenei meeting with individuals would be published in the future, though no definitive timeline was provided. Meanwhile, Iran’s new demands have stalled talks involving Oman and international mediators aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of US-Iran negotiations?
According to US President Donald Trump, Washington is “low-keying” talks and “semi-negotiating” while relying on economic pressure and inflation inside Iran to shift Tehran’s stance.
Why was the Strait of Hormuz closed?
The waterway was shut by Iran early in the war following the launch of US and Israel military operations on February 28. The strait historically handles about one-fifth of global commercial oil shipments.
Where is Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei?
Mojtaba Khamenei has remained out of public view since succeeding his father, Ali Khamenei. State media reports indicate he communicates through intermediaries, and the regime has not released recent video or photo documentation of him.
How have oil prices responded to the conflict?
After initially surging past $100 a barrel following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, crude prices have fallen back to approximately $75 a barrel, according to statements cited by the administration.
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