Iran is worried that the rapid advance of the IMEC corridor could offer a viable alternative to trade and energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz, while strengthening Israel's regional standing.
Iran reportedly rehabilitating damaged nuclear sites • Iran, Oman FMs discuss ‘appropriate mechanisms’ for Strait of Hormuz passage
While CNN reported that repair efforts were identified at sites in Iran's Parchin and Pickaxe Mountain, imagery of sites at Isfahan, Fordow, and Natanz did not indicate any restoration efforts.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran has asked us to continue 'talks.’ We have agreed to do so, but the United States has stated to them, in no uncertain terms, that the Cease Fire is OVER!” Trump asserted.
Iran has told Washington that recent attacks on shipping in the strait were from "an errant part of their system," one senior official said.
The UN shipping agency urged countries to reject Iran’s claim of sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz and its attempt to control international traffic through the vital waterway.
Iranian armed forces launched attacks on US military infrastructure in Gulf states on Thursday following US strikes on Iran's southern provinces, further eroding a three-week-old ceasefire.
![[FILE PHOTO] Delegation staff members meet during the quadrilateral meeting in Switzerland between the US, Iran, Pakistan, and Qatar on June 21, at the Lake Lucerne Summit, aimed at advancing a deal to end the Middle East conflict.](https://images.jpost.com/image/upload/f_auto,fl_lossy/q_auto/c_fill,g_faces:center,h_448,w_632/726902 "[FILE PHOTO] Delegation staff members meet during the quadrilateral meeting in Switzerland between the US, Iran, Pakistan, and Qatar on June 21, at the Lake Lucerne Summit, aimed at advancing a deal to end the Middle East conflict.")
The warning came after US President Donald Trump said Washington was considering strikes on Iranian energy and desalination infrastructure if tensions escalate.
“We’ve proved that we stand with the US. I’m not sure it will be of interest to the US that Israel will join on this - but, you know, we realize that we need to stretch our muscles,” a source said.
The night passed without military action by either the US or Iran, but tensions remained high across the Middle East following the escalation in recent days.
Iran reportedly rehabilitating damaged nuclear sites • US, Iran technical teams to reportedly meet in Pakistan on Saturday • Saudi crown prince speaks to Trump on issues involving Iran, Hormuz
