U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated in a briefing on the 28th (local time) that while U.S. and Iranian negotiation teams are still in talks, President Trump has clearly set several 'red lines' and will not accept a 'bad deal'. Secretary Bessent explained that President Trump consistently prefers a peaceful agreement and that all current U.S. actions are 'defensive in nature', adding that if a peaceful agreement is deemed impossible, he will make corresponding decisions. He conveyed that President Trump is demanding Iran transfer highly enriched uranium, abandon nuclear weapons development, and guarantee free navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Secretary Bessent also stated that he spoke with the Omani ambassador to the U.S. today, and the Omani side assured that they have no intention of imposing tolls in the Strait of Hormuz. Furthermore, he warned that countries attempting to restrict freedom of navigation could face U.S. sanctions.
