Iran Accuses Trump of 'Theater Diplomacy' Amid Escalating Conflict
The conflict between Iran and the US is escalating, with Tehran accusing President Trump of engaging in 'theater diplomacy.' Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf made the comment on social media, suggesting that Trump's claims of a deal being reached were unfounded. The remarks came after Trump announced he was calling off planned strikes and said outlines of an agreement had been settled with Iran.
However, Iranian officials have rejected this claim, saying no talks were underway. The conflict is spreading across the region, with Gulf energy infrastructure and key shipping chokepoints under threat. Saudi Arabia has warned of 'multiple coordinated attacks' by Iraqi militia factions working with Iran-backed Houthis, which could strike the kingdom in the near future.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for oil shipments, saw only two vessels transit on Wednesday, down from eight a day earlier. Traffic through the Bab el-Mandeb has collapsed to a single dry bulk carrier. A draft plan involving Iran and Oman for managing traffic via the waterway would bar US and Israeli ships, as well as those that have 'caused damage' to Iran, until compensation is paid.
Iran also plans to impose penalties of up to 20% of cargo value on those who violate the agreement. The development has led to a jump in oil prices, with Brent crude futures gaining 1.3% to $83.55 a barrel and WTI crude rising about 1.1% to $78.17.