Iran says Strait of Hormuz is open after Lebanon deal, Trump expects Iran deal 'soon'

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that the Strait of Hormuz is open to commercial vessels following a US-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. The ceasefire ended a conflict that had destabilized the Middle East and threatened global oil supplies. US President Donald Trump said he expects a deal with Iran 'soon', but the US military blockade on Iranian ports remains in place. Iranian sources indicate some gaps remain to be resolved before a preliminary deal. A Pakistani source involved in mediating between the US and Iran reported progress in backdoor diplomacy, with a potential memorandum of understanding to be signed soon. The key sticking points include Tehran's nuclear ambitions and international sanctions.