Trump Urges Tehran to Focus on Nuclear Deal Over Hormuz Strait Tariffs

American and Iranian negotiators are currently in Doha, Qatar, for intensive talks focused on the situation in the Strait of Hormuz. The Donald Trump administration is attempting to convince Tehran that the benefits of a comprehensive nuclear deal would far outweigh the revenue that could be generated from imposing tariffs in the strait. Both sides have set a 60-day deadline to reach a thorough nuclear agreement. However, two weeks into this period, the US and Iran remain at odds over points in the signed memorandum of understanding (MOU), and the risk of the initial agreement collapsing is now considered higher than the chances of reaching a final deal. Following a series of armed contacts, the US and Iran reached an understanding on Sunday to de-escalate tensions in the Strait of Hormuz for one week. This temporary ceasefire is intended to provide space for technical progress on the MOU without the disruption of missile attacks, though concerns persist that new clashes could erupt after the 4th of July celebrations in the United States. Presidential envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner met with the Prime Minister and Emir of Qatar on Tuesday and Wednesday to pave the way for technical-level negotiations between US and Iranian teams. The main issues discussed included the security situation in the strait, the release of frozen Iranian assets, and a ceasefire in Lebanon. The primary trigger for Iran’s attacks on commercial vessels last week was the opening of a new shipping route near the coast of Oman. Iran claims shared sovereignty over the strait and intends to levy transit fees once the MOU expires. In contrast, the US maintains that the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway whose governance must involve other Gulf states. US officials revealed that Witkoff and Kushner are trying to convey a message for Iran to think bigger. Washington argues that if sanctions are lifted through a nuclear deal, Iran’s revenue from oil development and other resources could be 100 times greater than the proceeds from gangster-like tactics of imposing tolls in the strait. President Trump himself stated that the meeting in Doha went very well. Although he had requested a briefing on military options following Iran’s attacks last week, Trump ultimately agreed to prioritise the negotiation path. A report from Al-Arabiya mentioned an understanding regarding the first phase release of US$3 billion in frozen Iranian assets held in Qatar, with the funds reportedly restricted to the purchase of humanitarian goods. However, US officials have officially denied that any agreement on the release of these funds has been reached. Meanwhile, the US is also working to restrain Israeli escalation in Lebanon to maintain regional stability during the negotiations. Responding to this, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on social media platform X that the US has a responsibility to control its ally in Tel Aviv if it wishes to avoid retaliation from Iran.