Middle East Update: US and Iran to Continue Negotiations, Iranian Foreign Minister to Visit Oman on Saturday to Discuss Hormuz Issue

BlockBeats News, July 11th. The situation in the Middle East remains tense. Trump has stated that he has agreed to continue negotiations with Iran, but the temporary ceasefire has ended. The US has requested Iran to commit to not firing at ships in the Strait of Hormuz by Saturday and has indicated that it will continue to strike Iran if necessary.

Iran has stated that it never requested negotiations with the US but has agreed to a mediator's visit. The Speaker of the Iranian Parliament has declared that Iran will not surrender and will engage in full defense if the US "betrays" them. Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif will lead a delegation to Oman on Saturday to hold discussions on the issue of the Strait of Hormuz and bilateral relations.

In addition, sources have revealed that the US, Iran, Pakistan, and Qatar may hold a four-way call, with a Qatari representative already in Iran for urgent mediation. Israeli sources have mentioned that Trump currently does not want Israel to directly engage in combat to prevent further escalation of the situation. However, there are other reports indicating that Israel is still willing to participate in strikes against Iran, awaiting a clear stance from the US.

Meanwhile, the US has announced a new round of sanctions against Iran, targeting key figures in the IRGC and their money exchange networks. France has called on Iran to immediately and unconditionally open the Strait of Hormuz and allow the International Atomic Energy Agency to inspect relevant nuclear facilities.