Donald Trump told Axios, 'We are only semi-negotiating with them' and added that the process is like a chess game.
Trump also stated that the process is being conducted quietly and expressed confidence in the outcome, saying, 'It will work out. It always works out.'
Responding to the comparison, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said that Iranians have shown they are professional chess players, regardless of whether 'lights are out or lights are on.'
Baghaei also stated that it is up to the United States to stop its 'illegal and destructive actions.'
In the region, the UKMTO reported that trade in the Strait of Hormuz is currently at a 'reduced level.'
