U.S. President Donald Trump said the war with Iran could end "very soon, probably right after the elections," as fighting intensified in Yemen and attacks on shipping continued around the Strait of Hormuz.

Speaking at a rally in Alabama, Trump reiterated that Iran must not obtain a nuclear weapon and questioned who Washington could negotiate with in Tehran. He also highlighted the U.S. blockade and said oil prices would fall once the conflict ended. He offered no details on how an agreement might be reached.

His comments came as diplomatic efforts remained stalled. Iran has been awaiting a definitive U.S. response to its proposal for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, with Tehran previously saying it would not soften its conditions.

Tensions around the waterway remained elevated. A crude oil tanker was struck by an unknown projectile off Oman, according to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations agency. All crew members were reported safe, and authorities were investigating.

Separately, the IRGC said Iranian forces had "full control" of the Strait of Hormuz, according to the Iraqi News Agency.

The energy fallout prompted G7 countries to agree to release up to 100 million barrels of diesel and crude reserves over four months. International Energy Agency chief Fatih Birol said oil prices had begun falling following the decision. Trump subsequently said Washington would not proceed with a threatened export ban.

The conflict also continued spreading through Yemen. The internationally recognised government’s armed forces said they conducted 474 attacks against Houthi positions over 24 hours, killing or wounding 1,540 fighters. The Houthis have not confirmed those casualty figures.

Saudi Arabia’s Civil Defence said debris from an intercepted ballistic missile injured a resident in the southern Asir region. A separate Houthi projectile struck a school in Najran, causing damage but no reported casualties.

The Saudi-led coalition said it intercepted three ballistic missiles targeting Khamis Mushait. The Houthis separately accused Saudi forces of carrying out dozens of strikes across Yemen.

Washington also increased economic pressure on Tehran, joining 66 countries in calling for enforcement of reimposed UN sanctions and urging Iran to return to its international non-proliferation commitments.

Source: Investing.com

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