Iran's foreign minister met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow as negotiations between Iran and the United States appeared to collapse, heightening tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic waterway carries roughly one-fifth of the world's oil supply, and the escalating standoff has raised fears of broader economic disruption. Putin praised Iran's resistance, while the Kremlin described the talks as critical to the evolving situation in the Middle East.
Diplomatic efforts have stalled amid mutual accusations. Tehran questioned whether Washington is serious about diplomacy, while President Donald Trump insisted the United States holds the advantage and dismissed further mediated talks. Core disputes remain unresolved, including Iran's nuclear program and control over the strait.
As talks falter, confrontation has shifted to the sea. The United States has enforced a naval blockade targeting Iranian shipping, and Iran has threatened or restricted traffic through the strait. Oil prices have risen as shipping declines and uncertainty grows.
Iran has proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz if the United States lifts its blockade and defers nuclear negotiations, an offer Washington has shown little interest in accepting. Meanwhile, Iran's outreach to Moscow has intensified scrutiny over Russia's potential support, signaling a deepening alignment that could further complicate the crisis and its global economic stakes.

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