US-Iran War Live Updates: Tensions Rise as Trump and Iran Report Progress Amid Hormuz Crisis

As the US-Iran conflict enters its eighth week, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz has escalated dramatically, with two Indian-flagged tankers forced to turn back after coming under fire from Iranian gunboats. This vital waterway, which transports approximately one-fifth of the world's oil and gas, remains a focal point of tension amid ongoing military actions involving the US, Israel, and Iran.

Reports indicate that no injuries were sustained during the incident, and the vessels, identified as the Jag Arnav and Sanmar Herald, were not damaged. However, a distress message from the Sanmar Herald has surfaced, highlighting the chaos that unfolded during the attack. In a tense audio clip shared by maritime intelligence firm Tanker Trackers, a crew member can be heard urgently communicating with the Iranian navy, stating, "Sepah Navy. Sepah Navy. This is motor tanker Sanmar Herald. You gave me clearance to go. My name is second on your list. You are firing now. Let me turn back."

American broadcaster NBC reported that the tanker was navigating in the strait's 'Green Area' when it was targeted. The vessel had initially turned off its Automatic Identification System (AIS) while heading eastbound but reactivated it upon entering the eastern side of the strait.

Following the attack, the Indian government summoned the Iranian ambassador to express its "deep concern" over the incident, underscoring the international ramifications of the conflict.

In a related development, US President Donald Trump addressed the media, stating that "very good conversations" were ongoing with Iran, yet he cautioned Tehran against attempts to "blackmail" the United States. Trump accused Iran of trying to manipulate the situation by reimposing restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic maritime route crucial for global oil supply. "We're talking to them. They wanted to close up the strait again -- you know, as they've been doing for years -- and they can't blackmail us," he asserted.

Trump also hinted at potential military action, threatening to "start dropping bombs again" if Iran does not agree to a long-term deal before the ceasefire expires on Wednesday.

Meanwhile, Iranian officials have claimed that progress is being made in peace talks with the US, although they acknowledge that a final agreement is still "far" from being reached. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the speaker of the Iranian parliament, emphasized in a televised address that significant gaps remain in negotiations. "We are still far from the final discussion," he stated, reflecting the complexities of the diplomatic landscape.

Ghalibaf also asserted that Iran has emerged "victorious in the field" during the ongoing conflict, suggesting that the temporary ceasefire was a result of the US conceding to Iranian demands. He remarked, "If we accepted the ceasefire, it was because they accepted our demands," reinforcing Iran's position in the negotiations.

As the ceasefire deadline approaches, the world watches closely, aware that the outcome of these talks could have profound implications for global oil markets and regional stability.