TEHRAN — Iran has suspended indirect peace talks with the United States amid ongoing tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian state-affiliated media reported on Saturday.
The suspension follows disputes regarding access to the strategic waterway, which has been a central issue in negotiations aimed at stabilizing the region after months of conflict. Iranian officials cited unresolved differences over maritime security and related matters as the reason for halting discussions, according to reports from Tasnim news agency.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments, has seen restricted shipping traffic since earlier this year amid the broader Iran-U.S. tensions. Details of the latest suspension remained limited as of Saturday.
Iranian media said the negotiating team would pause exchanges through mediators. A senior Iranian figure was quoted saying the move was necessary due to persistent disagreements on key issues including the strait.
U.S. officials have not immediately commented on the reported suspension. Earlier rounds of talks, facilitated through intermediaries, had focused on extending ceasefires, reopening maritime routes and addressing sanctions and nuclear concerns.
The developments come against the backdrop of a fragile ceasefire established in April following intense exchanges earlier in 2026. Negotiations had shown signs of progress in May, with discussions involving the potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz under agreed frameworks, according to public statements from both sides at the time.
Disruptions in the strait have affected global energy markets, though the full extent of current shipping volumes was not immediately clear. Iranian authorities have previously asserted control over parts of the waterway, while the U.S. has emphasized the need for unrestricted passage.
As of Saturday, no new timeline for resuming talks was announced. Mediators from regional countries had been involved in prior discussions, but their current status was unclear.
The suspension highlights the challenges in reaching a lasting agreement between Tehran and Washington. Both governments have described the talks as complex, involving multiple interconnected issues from regional security to economic measures.
Officials on both sides have previously indicated that progress depends on mutual concessions. Iranian state media stressed that the country remains committed to defending its interests in the Persian Gulf.
Further updates were expected in the coming hours as diplomats monitor the situation.
