US Warns Peace Deal with Iran 'Extremely Difficult' Amid Strait of Hormuz Tensions

Vessels are seen anchored in Iran's Bandar Abbas along the Strait of Hormuz on June 18, 2026 [File: Amirhossein Khorgooei/ISNA/AFP]. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated in an interview with US media that achieving a peace agreement with Iran presents significant challenges. Rubio indicated that economic pressure on Tehran will persist until it ceases its targeting of commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. In response, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi informed the media that the Strait of Hormuz will remain inaccessible until Washington meets Tehran’s conditions. Araghchi also confirmed that indirect negotiations are ongoing, facilitated by Pakistan and Qatar.