US and Israel Prepare Possible Strikes Amid Progress in Hormuz Strait Talks with Iran
The United States and Iran are nearing a critical point in negotiations over the Strait of Hormuz, with Tehran claiming a framework agreement with Oman has been formed and details expected to be published soon. US Vice President J.D. Vance confirmed recent progress in talks, emphasizing that the US is employing diplomatic, economic, and military tools to achieve the best outcome. The negotiations aim to maximize the flow of oil and gas through the strait to reduce fuel and energy prices in the US, with involvement from other Gulf countries to ensure safe maritime passage.
Despite diplomatic advances, the possibility of renewed US military strikes remains on the table, alongside potential independent Israeli action. The US continues to discuss how to target Iran’s underground nuclear site at Mount Makuh, near Natanz, which reportedly houses centrifuges relocated by Iran. President Donald Trump has publicly threatened to strike the site if negotiations fail, highlighting the operational challenges due to its deep rock protection and fortified tunnels.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards maintain a hardline stance, stating that reopening the Strait of Hormuz is separate from the Oman talks and contingent on Iran’s conditions being met. Oman has expressed cautious optimism about the constructive atmosphere of the negotiations, urging avoidance of actions that could harm progress. Meanwhile, the UAE accused Iran of attacking a ship linked to Abu Dhabi’s national oil company in the strait.
Satellite imagery shows some tunnels at Mount Makuh have been blocked and reinforced, while others remain open with visible activity. Experts suggest bunker-busting bombs may struggle to penetrate the granite, and a ground operation would be highly risky. An alternative US strategy could involve precision strikes on tunnel entrances to block access and allow aerial monitoring.
The key unresolved issue is whether Iran’s concessions will satisfy Trump enough to halt military action or if the president will proceed with his threats. Vance summarized the situation by stating, "It’s not decided yet," underscoring the ongoing uncertainty despite recent diplomatic progress.
