Iran announced it will cease all trade in the Gulf if the United States continues its naval blockade, potentially escalating tensions and ending a ceasefire.
Iranian authorities have stated that a continued US naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz could lead to a breakdown in mediation efforts and restart hostilities. Major General Ali Abdollahi, commander of the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), declared that Iran will halt all trade – including exports and imports – within the Persian Gulf, Sea of Oman, and Red Sea if the US persists with its blockade. This action is framed as a response to the US claiming complete disruption of Iranian trade via sea. The statement follows US military claims of a full economic blockade and the deployment of additional American troops to the Middle East, alongside hints of a potential second round of face-to-face talks with Iran in Pakistan, potentially led by Vice President JD Vance. Meanwhile, Pakistan's military and interior ministers arrived in Iran as part of a Pakistani delegation, signaling a diplomatic effort coordinated through mediators following exchanges with the US. The primary objective of future talks is to achieve a complete cessation of the conflict and restore Iran's rights, alongside the lifting of international sanctions. Iranian officials emphasize Iran’s commitment to not developing nuclear weapons while asserting its right to utilize nuclear energy for civilian purposes under UN safeguards, particularly concerning the negotiation of enrichment levels and types. Furthermore, Iran continues to criticize the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director Rafael Grossi for statements that Iran believes contributed to the recent Israeli attack and ongoing conflict. Recently, Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf held a phone call with United Arab Emirates Vice President Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss regional developments.
Sources: Based on reporting from Al Jazeera
✨ This report was generated by AI News Assistant.
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