WASHINGTON, April 29 -- Efforts to end the Middle East war appeared at a standstill on Tuesday, with the United States considering Tehran's latest offer to unblock the Strait of Hormuz, and Iran saying Washington could no longer dictate terms.

Iran has blockaded the waterway - a vital conduit for oil and gas shipments - since the start of the US-Israeli offensive two months ago, sending shockwaves through the global economy.

US officials did not dispute accounts by CNN and The Wall Street Journal that Trump was sceptical of the proposal.

Oil prices soared above US$110 (RM434) a barrel - their highest level since the US-Iran ceasefire - as the market felt new jitters over renewed conflict.

Qatar - a US ally that was hit by Iranian stri...