The US will not lift its blockade on Iranian ports until a deal has been reached with Tehran, US President Donald Trump has said, amid continuing uncertainty over whether fresh talks to end the war will take place. The blockade, which began a week ago, is 'absolutely destroying Iran', Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social, adding his country was winning the conflict 'by a lot'.
His comments come with the temporary US-Iran ceasefire set to end soon, but with no certainty over a second round of peace talks expected to be held in Pakistan. Security in Islamabad is ramped up in anticipation of the meetings, but details surrounding the US delegation, led by Vice President JD Vance, remain unclear as they have not yet departed Washington.
Reports indicate that the US forces have already directed 27 vessels to turn back amidst the blockade, and a recent interception of an Iranian ship has attracted severe condemnation from Tehran, who labeled it an 'act of piracy'. The Iranian government insists it will maintain its blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route, until the US halts its own operations against Iranian ports. As diplomatic efforts continue, both sides appear to be at odds over the terms that might lead to a negotiated settlement.
His comments come with the temporary US-Iran ceasefire set to end soon, but with no certainty over a second round of peace talks expected to be held in Pakistan. Security in Islamabad is ramped up in anticipation of the meetings, but details surrounding the US delegation, led by Vice President JD Vance, remain unclear as they have not yet departed Washington.
Reports indicate that the US forces have already directed 27 vessels to turn back amidst the blockade, and a recent interception of an Iranian ship has attracted severe condemnation from Tehran, who labeled it an 'act of piracy'. The Iranian government insists it will maintain its blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route, until the US halts its own operations against Iranian ports. As diplomatic efforts continue, both sides appear to be at odds over the terms that might lead to a negotiated settlement.
