Iran and the United States hardened their positions as diplomacy aimed at reaching a ceasefire in the war in West Asia appeared to be faltering on Thursday (March 26, 2026). Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, “We do not intend to negotiate -- so far, no negotiations have taken place, and I believe our position is completely principled.”
Tehran moved to formalise its control over the crucial Strait of Hormuz while Washington prepared for the arrival of U.S. combat forces in the region that could be used on the ground in the Islamic Republic. Iran is instituting a “de facto ‘toll booth’ regime,” industry experts say, with some ships paying in Chinese yuan to pass through the strait.
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Meanwhile, the Israeli military on Thursday (March 26, 2026) said air defences responded to missile attacks from Iran that, according to medics, left six people lightly wounded and caused some damage.
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