The Digest:
Iran has declared that the United States is no longer able to "dictate" what other countries do, as Washington weighs a new proposal from Tehran on unblocking the Strait of Hormuz. Defence ministry spokesman Reza Talaei-Nik said: "The United States is no longer in a position to dictate its policy to independent nations," adding that Washington would "accept that it must abandon its illegal and irrational demands." The strait has been effectively sealed off since the war began.
Key Points:
- A ceasefire has halted fighting but talks on a permanent conclusion have been inconclusive.
- The proposal being considered would reopen the Strait of Hormuz as broader negotiations continue.
- Talaei-Nik said Iran is ready to share its defensive military capabilities with SCO member states.
- The strait is a vital conduit for global oil and gas shipments.
- The defence spokesman spoke ahead of an SCO defence ministers' meeting.
Iran remains defiant as diplomatic efforts to end the conflict continue.
Sources: Vanguard News, CNN
