WASHINGTON, United States: President Donald Trump said Monday that a US-Iran deal remained possible even as Washington launched fresh strikes and restored a naval blockade on Iranian shipping.
Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office on July 13, Trump said the two sides had reached an understanding two days earlier, only for Tehran to seek further changes. He did not identify the disputed provisions.
United States Central Command announced another round of strikes against Iran later Monday. It said the attacks aimed to reduce Iran’s ability to target civilians and commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump also said the United States would act as the waterway’s guardian and seek reimbursement from countries whose cargo receives American protection. His administration proposed a charge equal to 20% of the eligible cargo value, but no collection mechanism had been confirmed.
BREAKING – Trump says deal with Iran still 'possible' pic.twitter.com/t2rzOBmmhD
— Insider Paper (@TheInsiderPaper) July 13, 2026The US military said it would resume enforcement of its blockade against vessels travelling to or from Iranian ports and coastal areas on Tuesday. It said ships bound for non-Iranian destinations could continue using regional waters.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran remained in contact with Qatar, Pakistan and Oman to prevent further escalation. Iran has also accused Washington of violating the interim agreement.
Qatar and Pakistan helped mediate the June 17 memorandum of understanding, which established a 60-day framework for negotiations and safe navigation through the strait. Regional mediators have continued efforts to revive talks despite the renewed attacks.
Read: US Strikes Iran Third Night as Trump Restarts Blockade
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has claimed authority over the Strait of Hormuz, while Washington maintains that neutral maritime traffic remains open. Neither side had announced a new negotiating date.
