US President Donald Trump, hours after vowing to hit Iran "very hard," announced the cancellation of planned strikes, stating that a deal with Tehran had been "approved by all parties involved." However, he emphasized that the naval blockade would remain in full force until the transaction is finalized.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump listed countries that approved the discussions, including the US, Israel, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Turkey, Pakistan, Bahrain, Kuwait, Jordan, and Egypt. The time and place of the signing are to be announced shortly.

Iran's top military command warned of a more severe response if attacked again, with Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf threatening an "endless quagmire" for the US. The European Union's foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, emphasizing the need for a diplomatic solution.

The US has continued strikes on Iranian oil infrastructure, with a tanker off Oman hit on Thursday, killing three Indian sailors. India summoned a senior US diplomat to lodge a strong protest. Iran claimed to have completely closed the Strait of Hormuz, a claim denied by the US.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated Berlin's readiness to participate in a naval mission to secure the Strait of Hormuz once the conflict ends, while remaining committed to a diplomatic solution for now.

Source: www.dw.com