Trump rules out Iran talks as Hormuz shipping stays disrupted
Why it matters: The ceasefire lapsed Aug. 17, oil prices rose again and a vessel in the strait was hit, leaving one crew casualty.
President Donald Trump said Aug. 18 that no talks with Iran were under way or scheduled, hardening a standoff over the Strait of Hormuz after a temporary ceasefire expired a day earlier. Trump also insisted the waterway was open, even as preliminary shipping data showed crossings remained in single digits on Aug. 17. The UK Maritime Trade Operations said a vessel leaving the strait was struck by an unknown projectile, damaging its engine room and causing one crew casualty; the Omani Coast Guard was assisting. Iranian negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said the strait would stay shut until Washington lifts its blockade of Iranian ports, eases oil sanctions, releases frozen assets and ends military operations.