Iran Criticizes US Naval Blockade Amid Ongoing Negotiations
Iran's Response to US Demands
Mohsen Rezaei, an advisor to Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, has accused US President Donald Trump of undermining diplomatic efforts for the third time. He criticized the ongoing naval blockade against Iran and described the demands made during negotiations as unreasonable, according to reports from Al Arabiya. Rezaei stated, “By maintaining the naval blockade and imposing excessive demands, he has shown a lack of interest in genuine negotiations and is pursuing alternative goals.”
This statement follows remarks from Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei, who indicated that no agreement has been reached with the United States, although communication between the two nations is ongoing. Baghaei spoke during a phone interview with state-run IRIB TV, after Trump laid out his conditions for a potential deal with Iran, as reported by Xinhua news agency. He emphasized that Iran's primary focus in these discussions is to bring an end to the conflict.
Baghaei added, “Currently, we are not discussing specifics regarding Iran's uranium enrichment or the status of enriched uranium.” He also mentioned that the management of the Strait of Hormuz is a matter solely for Iran and Oman.
Trump's Stance on Negotiations
Earlier, President Trump took to social media to outline his expectations, stating, “Iran must commit to never developing a nuclear weapon.” He insisted that the Strait of Hormuz should be reopened immediately for unrestricted shipping, without tolls, and that any underwater mines must be cleared. Trump also mentioned that the US naval blockade would be lifted.
Furthermore, he indicated that Iran's stockpiles of enriched uranium would be dismantled in collaboration with Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency. Regarding Iran's demands for financial compensation related to the war, Trump stated, “No funds will be exchanged until further notice.” A ceasefire was established between Iran, the United States, and Israel on April 8 after a prolonged period of conflict.