Iran again closes Strait of Hormuz, what Trump said about US-Iran ceasefire extension
Washington: Iran has once again closed the Strait of Hormuz. It had been opened on Friday, but restrictions have now been reimposed on this maritime route.
Iran stated that, following talks with the United States, it had—in a gesture of trust—allowed certain oil tankers and cargo vessels to pass through. However, the U.S. failed to honor its commitments and, under the pretext of the blockade, acted aggressively toward the vessels.
Iran asserted that this constitutes a violation of the ceasefire agreement; consequently, the movement of ships through the Strait of Hormuz will now be placed entirely under military control. Iran has issued a clear warning: it will not permit any vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz until the United States lifts the blockade currently imposed on its ports.
The United States has refused to lift the blockade on the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump has stated that these measures will remain in effect until Iran reaches an agreement with the United States.
What Trump said about US-Iran ceasefire extension
US President Donald Trump has stated that if negotiations with Iran fail to yield an agreement by Wednesday, he cannot extend the temporary ceasefire currently in effect between the two nations. This statement by Trump has once again fueled apprehensions regarding potential military action.
According to reports, US and Iranian delegations are scheduled to participate in a second round of peace talks on Monday. However, US officials have not yet confirmed this. Trump also expressed confidence that both sides are close to reaching an agreement.
Meanwhile, the first 24 hours of a separate 10-day ceasefire underway in Lebanon proved largely effective. Nevertheless, during this period, Lebanon repeatedly accused Israel of violating the ceasefire.
In other developments, the US Treasury Department issued another waiver, authorizing the delivery and sale of Russian crude oil transported via restricted maritime routes. This waiver specifically applies to cargo loaded onto vessels between April 17 and May 16.
On the diplomatic front, Trump remarked that Chinese President Xi Jinping is "very pleased" with the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and expressed optimism ahead of their scheduled talks in May.
The coming days could prove decisive for US-Iran negotiations, as the potential expiration of the ceasefire—and broader regional stability—hang in the balance.
Meanwhile, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun stated that his country stands on the threshold of a "new phase" of "permanent settlements" and is no longer an "arena" for anyone else's wars. This statement came after a ceasefire went into effect in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict.