Trump says Iran has final opportunity to avert further U.S. strikes amid Oman-mediated talks

President Donald Trump told reporters that a diplomatic initiative, involving Oman’s mediation to establish a temporary shipping corridor through the Strait of Hormuz, constitutes Iran’s "last chance" to prevent additional U.S. strikes. Trump said the first phase would focus on reopening the strait, followed by a second phase aimed at denuclearising Iran, though Tehran has not publicly endorsed either step.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said Tehran is not holding talks with the United States and described the Oman discussions as a bilateral effort to create a temporary shipping route. The International Crisis Group’s deputy program director for the Middle East, Ali Vaez, noted that while there are no formal negotiations between U.S. and Iranian officials, some form of engagement appears to be ongoing.

Trump accused Iranian leaders of duplicity, stating that they request meetings while publicly denying any discussions. He added that the United States would resume strikes if the diplomatic process fails.

Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states have urged the United States to delay a planned attack, citing concerns over possible Iranian retaliation. Jonathan Schanzer, executive director of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, said the lack of a clear path forward complicates the U.S. response.

The conflict, which has seen intermittent cease-fires and renewed hostilities, continues to hinge on the ability of both sides to reach a sustainable agreement on shipping and nuclear issues.