Iran says final deal ‘far off’ as Strait of Hormuz remains closed

Iran has said a final peace agreement with the United States remains distant, as the Strait of Hormuz stays closed amid ongoing tensions between both countries.

 

Speaker of Iran’s parliament, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, disclosed in a televised address that although there has been some progress in negotiations, key issues remain unresolved.

 

“We are still far from the final discussion,” Ghalibaf said, noting that “many gaps and some fundamental points” are yet to be addressed.

 

Iran insisted it would not reopen the vital maritime route until the United States lifts its blockade on Iranian ports, a condition that has stalled further progress.

 

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical channel through which about a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passes, had briefly reopened following a temporary ceasefire linked to the Middle East conflict. However, Tehran reversed the decision after Washington maintained its blockade stance.

 

“If America does not lift the blockade, traffic in the Strait of Hormuz will definitely be limited,” Ghalibaf warned.

 

US President Donald Trump, while acknowledging ongoing talks, accused Iran of inconsistency and cautioned against attempts to “blackmail” the United States.

 

“We have very good conversations going on… we’re taking a tough stand,” Trump said.

 

A two-week ceasefire is expected to expire on Wednesday unless renewed, raising concerns about further escalation if negotiations fail to yield a breakthrough.