Iran and the US continue hardening their stances on Tehran’s nuclear programme even as hopes of a possible deal grow. Follow along for the latest updates on the escalating rhetoric, diplomacy and global energy concerns.
The reported directive comes as US President Donald Trump said Washington would not allow Iran to retain highly enriched uranium under any future agreement. Trump said the US intended to “take possession” of the material as part of any arrangement, underscoring a widening gap between the two sides over the future of Iran’s nuclear programme.
The developments come amid growing concerns over energy security and shipping disruptions linked to the conflict in the Gulf region. India has been among the countries affected by uncertainty around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route.
Responding to questions on how Washington could support India’s energy needs, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US wants to expand energy exports to India and is already in discussions to increase supplies.
“We want to sell them as much energy as they will buy,” Rubio said, adding that the US is at “historic levels” of production and exports. He also pointed to potential opportunities involving Venezuelan oil and described India as “an ally” and “a great partner.”
Meanwhile, Iran sought to project stability around maritime traffic in the Gulf. The Iranian Embassy in Japan said around 31 commercial vessels — including oil tankers, container ships and cargo carriers — safely transited the Strait of Hormuz in the past 24 hours in coordination with Iranian authorities.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically sensitive chokepoints, handling a major share of global crude oil shipments. Any prolonged disruption there could sharply impact global energy prices and supply chains, including for major importers such as India.
Follow along for the latest on war in West Asia.
