Trump touts nuclear guarantee from Iran, but Tehran counters with demand for US$12b in assets

US President Donald Trump stated he secured Iranian guarantees against nuclear weapons development, though Tehran dismissed earlier claims about uranium destruction. Iran’s state media reported the country requires the release of $12 billion in frozen assets before discussing its nuclear program or ending blockades in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump’s revised proposal, described as ‘tougher,’ remains unclear, while Iran insists Lebanon must be included in any war ceasefire agreement. Diplomatic efforts to end the Middle East conflict and reopen the Strait of Hormuz have stalled, despite a temporary ceasefire in April. Trump hinted at potential military action if demands aren’t met, while Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin warned the US could restart hostilities. Recent clashes include US strikes on Iran’s Bandar Abbas port and an Iranian Revolutionary Guards claim of shooting down a US drone near its territorial waters, though the latter is unconfirmed. In Lebanon, Israel’s military expanded operations, issuing evacuation warnings for villages near the border after advancing 30 kilometers into the country. Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam accused Israel of a ‘scorched-earth policy,’ while Iran’s parliament reportedly nears approval of a plan to assert control over the Strait of Hormuz. Trump previously suggested Iran would waive shipping tolls in the strait, but Iranian officials denied this was part of any agreement. Despite tensions, both sides continue diplomacy under pressure to ease blockades disrupting global oil supplies. Trump downplayed urgency, stating negotiations are progressing, while Iran’s lawmaker Alireza Salimi confirmed plans for strait management are under parliamentary review. The fragile ceasefire remains at risk as military posturing escalates.