A senior official from the United Arab Emirates stated on Friday that official Iran cannot be trusted in any unilateral agreement related to the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting deep mistrust between the parties amid a deadlock in efforts to end the United States–Iran conflict.
Two months after the conflict began, this critical maritime route remains largely closed due to an Iranian blockade, while the U.S. Navy is restricting Iranian oil exports.
This situation has impacted around 20% of global oil and gas supply, increasing prices and raising concerns about a global economic slowdown, according to Reuters.
A ceasefire has been in place since April 8, but reports that U.S. President Donald Trump may consider new military strikes to force Iran into negotiations pushed oil prices to their highest levels in four years on Thursday.
According to Iranian sources, the country has activated its air defenses and is preparing for a broad response in the event of an attack, anticipating a rapid strike from the United States, possibly followed by Israel.
Washington has not disclosed its next steps. Trump has stated he is not satisfied with Iran’s latest proposal, while Pakistan, acting as a mediator, has not yet set a date for new talks.
Following joint U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on February 28, Iran targeted bases and facilities linked to the United States in Gulf countries. At the same time, Hezbollah launched rockets toward Israel, which responded with strikes in Lebanon.
Speaking on Gulf states’ concerns, UAE presidential adviser Anwar Gargash said that only international will and international law can guarantee freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
He added that no unilateral agreement with Iran can be trusted following its actions against neighboring countries.
Meanwhile, Trump is facing a legal deadline to either end the war or seek approval from Congress to continue it.
