The US appears locked in Groundhog Day-style holding pattern as Iran’s leaders stick to their guns over keeping control over the Strait of Hormuz under any negotiated settlement.

Trump says Hormuz negotiations are progressing amid the 2026 crisis. Agreement by August 31 at 60% YES.

Inside Iran’s Hormuz strategy: how control of the Strait of Hormuz is being used to pressure Trump on sanctions relief, frozen assets and US military pullback.