Iran’s top negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, has declared that reopening the Strait of Hormuz is “not possible” as long as the United States continues its naval blockade of Iranian ports and Israel persists with “warmongering.” This statement follows what Iran describes as “blatant violations” of the US-Iran ceasefire agreement.
Earlier, Iran seized two cargo ships, MSC Francesca and MSC Epaminondas, in the Strait of Hormuz, an action taken after US President Donald Trump extended the ceasefire but affirmed the continuation of the US blockade. Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian echoed Ghalibaf’s sentiments, stating that the US blockade, threats, and a “breach of commitments” are the primary impediments to genuine negotiations. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, however, indicated that President Trump is “satisfied” with the naval blockade and denied any set deadline for the extended ceasefire, emphasizing that “the cards are in President Trump’s hands right now.”
The US military’s Central Command (Centcom) claims its naval blockade is effective, having intercepted 29 vessels and directed 28 to turn back. However, BBC Verify reported that some Iranian-linked vessels have managed to cross the blockade line. The US administration also saw the departure of Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan amidst the ongoing enforcement of the blockade.
In Iran, pro-government rallies have featured displays of long-range drones and missiles, with crowds chanting “Death to America.” Meanwhile, President Trump’s claim to have halted the execution of eight Iranian women protesters was refuted by Iran’s judiciary, which dismissed it as “fake news” and stated the women were never slated for execution.
Internationally, the head of the UN’s International Maritime Organisation called for the immediate release of the detained seafarers, highlighting the risks to global shipping. Despite the escalating tensions and calls for negotiations, talks between the US and Iran, scheduled to resume in Pakistan, have yet to commence. The White House has maintained a largely silent stance, with Trump’s public schedule consisting of closed-door meetings.
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