Iran oil minister resigns amid U.S. diplomacy and regional tensions

Iran's oil minister, Mohsen Paknejad, has resigned from his post, with President Masoud Pezeshkian accepting his resignation. State media did not specify the reason for his departure, which comes as Iran's oil sector faces significant pressure from U.S. sanctions and a naval blockade. Hamid Bovard, head of the state-owned National Iranian Oil Company, has been appointed acting oil minister.

Meanwhile, diplomatic tensions between Iran and the United States persist. Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf revealed that Washington recently sent new proposals through a mediator, though he declined to provide details. Qalibaf also noted that American officials often present differing statements in the media, particularly after former President Donald Trump rejected Iran's latest peace proposal.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran remains committed to diplomacy but warned of a more forceful response to any renewed military confrontation. Iran continues to demand that seven conditions be met before the Strait of Hormuz can fully reopen.

In related regional developments, Yemen's internationally recognized government has launched a major military operation against Iran-backed Houthi rebels, who have been advancing toward Taiz. Saudi Arabia has signaled its support for confronting the rebels, asserting its right to take measures to deter them. Additionally, a British maritime monitor reported explosions near the Bab el-Mandeb strait, though the crew of the affected commercial tanker was reported safe.