Trump Hardens Stance on Iran as Hormuz Deal Hopes Dim

President Trump demanded Iran pay reparations for past attacks, hardening his stance and dimming hopes for a Hormuz reopening deal. Oil prices rose as tensions escalated. The U.S. extended a Jones Act waiver to reduce fuel transport costs, while Iran’s economy grapples with 77% inflation. - Trump demands Iran pay reparations for 50 years of damages, adding a new precondition to negotiations. - Iran previously sought compensation in exchange for reopening the Strait of Hormuz; talks now appear stalled. - Oil prices gained on the heightened geopolitical risk and supply disruption fears. - The U.S. extended the Jones Act waiver for 90 days to make shipping diesel, jet fuel and gas cheaper domestically. - Iran’s economy is severely strained, with year-over-year inflation hitting 77% per central bank data. - White House opts for economic pressure over diplomacy, tightening the grip on Iran.