Iran vows to restrict ships in Strait of Hormuz over US blockade

Key Points:

• Iran has reiterated its commitment to restrict ship passage through the Strait of Hormuz as long as the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports continues, complicating efforts to extend the current ceasefire.
• The Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for about one-fifth of global oil trade, saw renewed tensions after two India-flagged ships were fired upon, causing vessels to halt transit and risking escalation in the region.
• Pakistani mediators are working to facilitate further negotiations between the U.S. and Iran, with Iran reviewing new U.S. proposals but expressing reluctance for immediate face-to-face talks due to unresolved fundamental issues.
• Iran’s Supreme National Security Council condemned the U.S. blockade as a ceasefire violation and emphasized Iran’s intent to maintain control over strait traffic until the broader conflict concludes.
• U.S. President Donald Trump acknowledged ongoing talks but maintained a firm stance against Iranian demands, while Iran rejected U.S. proposals to hand over enriched uranium, signaling persistent diplomatic deadlock.