Israeli officials have stated that the country will continue its strikes against Iran, contradicting US President Donald Trump's claims of ongoing peace talks. The conflict has been ongoing for 25 days, with energy and financial markets being severely affected. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said the campaign will continue 'at full intensity,' while Energy Minister Eli Cohen warned that Trump's comments should be taken 'slowly.' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has asked close confidant Ron Dermer to monitor any US-Iranian negotiations to ensure Israel's interests are upheld.
The conflict has resulted in significant losses, with over 4,350 lives claimed, with three-quarters of those being in Iran. Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has all but stopped, with only a few tankers passing through since the conflict began. Iran has started charging commercial vessels transit fees for passing through the strait, a sign of Tehran's control over the world's most important maritime energy channel.
Trump has suggested that the US and Iran could jointly control the Strait of Hormuz, which may reopen soon 'if it works.' However, Iranian officials have denied any involvement in peace talks, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi holding calls with counterparts in several countries. The deputy speaker of Iran's parliament has ruled out negotiations with Trump, calling him a 'liar' and 'someone who is in whom there is no sign of honor, humanity, or conscience.'
