ISLAMABAD/WASHINGTON: Tensions in the Middle East have reached a boiling point after President Donald Trump announced that the United States would begin blockading the Strait of Hormuz. The President stated that the U.S. will interdict vessels paying tolls to Iran, citing Tehran’s refusal to abandon its nuclear ambitions following the collapse of high-level negotiations in Islamabad.
The 21-hour marathon discussions between U.S. and Iranian negotiators ended without a permanent peace deal. Vice President JD Vance confirmed in a presser that no agreement was reached on core issues, including Iran’s nuclear program and regional stability. Following the breakdown, Israel’s military chief has ordered heightened readiness for potential strikes, signaling a possible resumption of hostilities.
While Iran’s Foreign Ministry noted that some understanding was reached on minor points, they remained fundamentally divided on key issues such as sanctions relief, war reparations, and the Strait of Hormuz. Amidst the escalating crisis, Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, expressing Moscow’s readiness to facilitate a settlement. With the Iranian delegation returning to Tehran and the U.S. deploying a military-backed blockade, the fragile ceasefire appears to be on the verge of total unraveling.
With input from Iranintl.
For more details: Navamalayalam.com