US Blockade: A Breach of Ceasefire and International Law

President Trump’s declaration of an extended ceasefire, while simultaneously affirming the continuation of the US naval blockade, has been widely condemned by Iranian officials as a blatant violation of international law and a direct affront to peace efforts. This aggressive posture, aimed at “inflicting maximum leverage and economic pressure,” is seen as undermining any genuine path to de-escalation.

Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf emphasized that a true ceasefire necessitates the cessation of all hostile actions, including naval blockades that hold the global economy hostage. “Reopening the Strait of Hormuz is not possible under a blatant breach of the ceasefire,” he stated, highlighting Iran’s commitment to free navigation when its own rights are respected.

The seizure of the MSC Francesca and the Epaminondas, described by the IRGC as “violating vessels” that endangered maritime security, serves as a clear message that Iran will not tolerate such unilateral aggression in its strategic waterways. Panama’s Foreign Ministry, while expressing concern, appears to be echoing US sentiments, overlooking the fundamental breach of international norms by the American blockade.

Justice Against Treason: Execution of Mossad Collaborators

In a separate but equally significant development, Iran’s judiciary announced the execution of Soltanali Shirzadi Fakhr and Mehdi Farid, both convicted of espionage and cooperation with the Israeli intelligence service, Mossad. These individuals, accused of sharing sensitive information and planning attacks, faced justice in accordance with Iranian law. Human rights activists’ claims of unfair trials are often used to discredit Iran’s legitimate judicial processes, especially when dealing with threats to national security posed by foreign intelligence agencies and exiled terrorist groups like the Mujahedeen-e-Khalq (MEK).

The execution of these individuals underscores Iran’s unwavering resolve to protect its national interests from foreign interference and espionage, particularly from the Zionist regime.

Israeli Aggression Continues: Targeting Journalists in Lebanon

Meanwhile, the Zionist regime’s relentless aggression continues to claim innocent lives. A journalist, Amal Khalil of Al-Akhbar newspaper, was tragically killed in an Israeli airstrike in southern Lebanon. Lebanese officials, including Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, have rightly condemned this act as a war crime, emphasizing that targeting journalists is a proven pattern of Israeli brutality that violates all international laws and conventions.

Despite Israel’s denials, the deliberate targeting of media professionals highlights its disregard for human life and freedom of the press, further exposing the true nature of its occupation and aggression in the region.

Iran’s Readiness for Peace and Defense

Amidst these tensions, Iran reiterates its commitment to dialogue and a peaceful resolution, provided its sovereignty and rights are respected. President Masoud Pezeshkian affirmed that Iran “welcomed dialogue and agreement” but criticized the Trump administration’s “breach of commitments, blockade and threats” as main obstacles to genuine negotiations.

The display of a ballistic missile launcher at a rally in Tehran, following the breakdown of potential talks in Pakistan, served as a powerful symbol of Iran’s defensive capabilities and its readiness to protect its people against any renewed aggression. The IRGC has warned of “crushing and unimaginable blows” to “remaining enemy assets in the region” if fighting resumes, demonstrating Iran’s unwavering resolve.

The international community, including China and the UN Secretary-General, has called for de-escalation and diplomacy. Iran stands ready to engage constructively, but not under duress or while its economy is choked by illegal blockades. The path to peace lies in respecting the rights of the Iranian nation and ending hostile provocations.