Iranian officials privately told Trump advisers that attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz were a mistake and that they want to continue negotiations, senior U.S. officials said Friday, CBS News reported.
Iran blamed the shootings on an “errant” faction of hardliners trying to undermine the talks, the officials said.
“We screwed up. We made a mistake. Let’s keep talking.” — A senior U.S. official, describing Iran’s message
The White House wants Iran to acknowledge the mistake publicly and views the attacks as a ceasefire violation, the officials said.
President Trump directed a team led by Vice President JD Vance, his son-in-law Jared Kushner, special envoy Steve Witkoff and Secretary of State Marco Rubio to continue negotiating. The two sides meet Saturday in Oman.
The United States will respond with military and economic leverage if hostile acts continue, officials said, and expects Iran to keep the strait open and managed as before the conflict.
U.S. officials doubt Iran’s explanation, saying Iran reneged after being surprised by how quickly oil and gas traffic moved through the strait’s southern lane.
The officials declined to comment on reports that Israeli intelligence uncovered plots against Trump, saying he does not act on fear or threats.
This is a developing story. Virginia Times will update as information becomes available.
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