Iran Oil Official In Surprise Admission: 'Fate Of Our Refineries Now At Risk' As US Blockade Begins To Bite
Iran Oil Official In Surprise Admission: 'Fate Of Our Refineries Now At Risk' As US Blockade Begins To Bite Summary Iran oil sector official admits "serious threat" - telling NYT: "export of our oil and energy and the fate of our refineries is now at risk." US Navy jet fires on Iran-flagged tanker trying to reach Iranian waters & port. Axios reports that the White House is nearing a preliminary deal with Iran to end the war, as Trump post appears to offer olive branch. Other reports say just hammering out at 'framework' for 'monthlong' talks. White House says it expects a response to the latest offer within 48 hours. Iran's initial response via media & national security spox: US demands are unrealistic & do not reflect reality, & Axios report based on too much 'speculation'. A key caveat of the US offered deal is that Iran would commit to a moratorium on uranium enrichment, & Washington wants a 20-year ban on this; Iran & China FMs coordinate messaging in Beijing, denying Iran's intent to build nuclear bomb. <!--//--><