Iran remains firm on its demands, including sanctions relief and an end to the US naval blockade, in exchange for resuming normal traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, despite urgent diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation in the US-Israel conflict. China announced it would send an envoy to the region, and officials from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkiye have met with Iranian counterparts to discuss peace and security. Iran's security chief stated its armed forces are prepared to respond to any new attacks. Experts suggest Iran's calculations are influenced by distrust of Washington, economic pressure, and upcoming elections in Israel and the US. The conflict has disrupted global energy markets and driven up energy prices.