U.S.-Iran Peace Talks Advance as Traffic Returns to Strait of Hormuz

The Trump administration says negotiations with Iran are moving forward as both sides work toward a broader peace agreement following last week's preliminary memorandum of understanding.

Vice President JD Vance returned to the United States after participating in an initial round of negotiations, describing the talks as productive despite challenges.

Vance said the preliminary agreement lays the groundwork for a more comprehensive deal and claimed Iran has agreed to allow nuclear inspectors back into the country. However, Iran's Foreign Ministry disputed that characterization, saying no inspection visits have been scheduled and emphasizing that Iran's defensive and missile programs have not been part of the negotiations.

Meanwhile, the administration has granted Iran a 60-day waiver from certain U.S. sanctions, allowing the country to sell oil on the global market. The potential release of some frozen Iranian assets has drawn criticism from opponents who argue the moves reduce U.S. leverage during negotiations.

President Donald Trump defended the policy, saying funds released under the agreement would be used for humanitarian purposes, including food purchases sourced from American farmers.

The developments come as shipping traffic begins returning to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil transit corridors. Industry tracking data showed 15 oil tankers moving through the waterway Monday, the highest number recorded since Iran restricted access earlier in the conflict.

Administration officials say negotiations will continue in the coming weeks as both countries attempt to build on the preliminary agreement. President Trump has warned that the United States is prepared to respond if Iran fails to uphold its commitments under any future deal.

The ongoing talks are being closely watched by global markets, energy producers and U.S. allies throughout the Middle East as both sides work toward a longer-term resolution.