Tensions between Iran and the United States continue to escalate as the strategic Strait of Hormuz remained shut on Sunday, raising concerns over global energy supply and regional stability.
Iran’s Parliament Speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, said negotiations with Washington had made some progress but warned that a final agreement was still “far off.”
Speaking in a televised address, he noted that “many gaps” remain unresolved despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.
The closure follows failed high-level talks in Pakistan and Iran’s insistence that the waterway will not reopen until the US lifts its blockade on Iranian ports.
The strait is a critical global shipping route, handling about one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas.
US President Donald Trump acknowledged “very good conversations” with Iran but cautioned Tehran against what he described as attempts to “blackmail” Washington.
He reiterated that the US would maintain a firm stance until a comprehensive deal is reached.
A temporary reopening of the strait on Friday—following a ceasefire linked to the conflict involving Hezbollah—briefly eased global market fears and caused oil prices to drop.
However, Iran quickly reversed its position after the US refused to ease sanctions and port restrictions.
Security tensions in the Gulf remain high.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards warned that unauthorized vessels attempting to pass through the strait could be “targeted.”
Reports also indicated multiple incidents involving commercial ships, including gunfire and damage from unidentified projectiles.
Meanwhile, diplomatic mediation led by Egypt and Pakistan has shown cautious optimism. Egypt’s Foreign Minister suggested a potential agreement could be reached “in the coming days,” though major sticking points persist.
One of the key issues remains Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium. While President Trump claimed Tehran had agreed to hand over its reserves, Iranian officials strongly denied this, insisting their nuclear programme is a “legal right.”
President Masoud Pezeshkian questioned US demands, asking why Iran should be denied its nuclear capabilities without justification.
The broader conflict, which began on February 28 with joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran, has since expanded across the region, involving Gulf states and escalating hostilities.
With a two-week ceasefire set to expire midweek, the situation remains volatile, with the fate of the Strait of Hormuz—and global energy markets—hanging in the balance.
