Iran Reviews U.S. Peace Proposal Amid New Maritime Toll Regime in Hormuz
Tehran reviews a U.S. peace proposal as President Trump signals a brief pause in strikes, even as Iran moves to formalize control over the Strait of Hormuz.
Tensions between Washington and Tehran have entered a fragile diplomatic phase as the Iranian Foreign Ministry confirmed it is reviewing a new U.S. peace proposal. President Trump stated he is willing to delay planned military strikes for a 'few days' to allow for a response, though he maintained a firm stance in Oval Office remarks, asserting that the U.S. seeks a free and open Strait of Hormuz. Despite this diplomatic opening, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has moved to institutionalize control over the Strait, establishing a 'Persian Gulf Strait Authority' and reportedly charging transit tolls of up to $2 million, payable in bitcoin or Chinese yuan.
On the ground, the IRGC recently oversaw the passage of 26 vessels, including a significant oil shipment to South Korea—the first such transit since the conflict escalated with U.S. and Israeli strikes three months ago. Meanwhile, international mediation is intensifying; Pakistan and Oman are playing pivotal roles as back-channel intermediaries, with Pakistan's efforts reportedly receiving backing from China.
Domestically, the Trump administration is facing reported internal dissent. Reports suggest two senior officials, including former intelligence official Amaryllis Fox Kennedy, have resigned due to policy disagreements. Additionally, some figures within the administration circle have publicly questioned the imminence of the Iranian threat, suggesting a widening policy rift as the White House weighs its next move in the maritime and military standoff.
Key Points
- Iran has established a 'Persian Gulf Strait Authority' to formalize control over the Strait of Hormuz, reportedly charging tolls of up to $2 million in cryptocurrency or yuan.
- President Trump has signaled a temporary delay in planned military strikes for a 'few days' while Tehran reviews a U.S.-led peace proposal.
- Reports indicate internal friction within the Trump administration, with two senior officials allegedly resigning over disagreements regarding the Iran conflict.
- Pakistan and Oman are emerging as key diplomatic intermediaries, with China reportedly supporting Pakistan's role in mediation efforts.
- The IRGC successfully coordinated the passage of 26 cargo ships, including the first oil shipment to South Korea since U.S.-Israeli strikes began three months ago.