Aug 04, Kathmandu - A cargo ship was reportedly attacked near the strategic Strait of Hormuz using an unknown projectile, amid conflicting claims about whether talks between the two nations are underway to the ongoing US-Iran tensions.

According to the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the vessel, located approximately 37 kilometers northeast of Al Khasab, Oman, was struck around 2 a.m. local time. The UKMTO did not disclose the ship's name, flag, or cargo details.

The Strait of Hormuz, a vital gateway to the Persian Gulf, is one of the world's most critical energy trade routes, through which significant amounts of oil and natural gas are transported. Its security has become a focal point amid rising tensions between the US and Iran.

Since the outbreak of the US-Iran conflict in February, Iran has been restricting shipping through the waterways, while the US has maintained a blockade on Iranian ports, disrupting international maritime trade.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump claimed on Monday that negotiations with Iran have resumed to end the conflict. He stated that, at the request of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, the US is continuing diplomatic efforts. Despite Iran's public rejection, Trump asserted that dialogue between the two countries is ongoing.

However, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghai clarified that there are no negotiations with the US, and that Tehran's communications are only with Oman, focusing on ensuring safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump countered, accusing Iran of hypocrisy by claiming to seek talks while simultaneously denying any negotiations. He criticized Tehran for creating confusion through conflicting statements—proposing talks on one hand and denying negotiations on the other.

The incident and conflicting claims have intensified concerns over maritime security in one of the world's most volatile regions.