US-Iran deal talks face major hurdles over Strait of Hormuz

Mediators are working with Iran and the United States on a deal to end fighting and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, but major hurdles remain, according to regional and U.S. officials. The conflict, now in its eighth month, has caused global economic damage and battered Iran. The proposed deal would first reopen the strait and lift the U.S. blockade, followed by sanctions removal, with Iran seeking a seven-day timeline for action. The U.S. is demanding Iranian concessions on nuclear issues, including allowing inspectors, and remains skeptical after Iran broke a previous interim deal. Both sides face economic pressure, with Brent crude above $108, while a new front has emerged as Yemen's Houthi rebels threaten the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres planned to meet Iran's foreign minister Monday to support mediation efforts.