U.S. Strikes Targets in Southern Iran as Trump Weighs "Time-Limited" Nuclear Draft

The United States carried out a series of targeted airstrikes in southern Iran over the last 24 hours, striking missile-launching facilities and vessels allegedly involved in mine-laying operations. Despite the military action, diplomatic channels remain active. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed the existence of a "solid" draft framework that proposes reopening the Strait of Hormuz followed by a time-limited negotiation on Iran’s nuclear program. President Donald Trump described the talks as "proceeding nicely" but emphasized that he is in no hurry to reach a settlement, insisting on a comprehensive agreement before lifting maritime blockades. Negotiations have hit a new financial hurdle as Tehran reportedly issued a demand for the release of $12 billion in frozen assets currently held in Qatar. This demand positions financial relief as a primary precondition for moving forward with the U.S.-led framework. Meanwhile, regional tensions remain high; Israeli officials have signaled they are prepared to resume combat operations against Iran if diplomatic efforts fail. Global energy markets are responding sharply to these developments, with oil prices falling to a two-week low. The decline reflects investor cautiousness and optimism that a near-term maritime arrangement could stabilize shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. However, the U.S. administration maintains a dual-track strategy, with Rubio warning that the U.S. is prepared to pursue "another way" should Tehran reject the current diplomatic offer.