President Donald Trump declares the U.S. will maintain its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz until Iran agrees to a peace deal, stating the shipping halt is “absolutely destroying Iran.”
Ceasefire Deadline Approaches
The current ceasefire expires Wednesday evening Washington time. Trump indicates it is “highly unlikely” he will extend it without an agreement. “I’m not going to be rushed into making a bad deal. We’ve got all the time in the world,” he stated.
Trump insists the military blockade of Iranian vessels remains in place “until there is a ‘DEAL’.” Iranian officials reject responding to coercion.
Talks in Pakistan Delayed
No commitments exist for a second round of direct U.S.-Iran talks in Islamabad. JD Vance heads to Pakistan on Tuesday amid conflicting reports of a Monday departure. Iran delays confirmation of attendance and promises retaliation after the U.S. seized an Iranian cargo ship attempting to breach the blockade.
Blockade Escalates Tensions
U.S. forces turn back ships and seize vessels, which Iran labels as “piracy.” Iran restricts access to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route, driving up energy prices. Both nations accuse each other of ceasefire violations.
White House Criticizes Media Coverage
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt accuses U.S. media outlets of “rooting for the Iranian regime over the American people.” She spoke on Fox News following Trump’s Truth Social post decrying coverage. “I’m winning a War, BY A LOT, things are going very well, our Military has been amazing,” Trump wrote, contrasting it with reports major outlets.
Trump Rejects Obama-Era Nuclear Deal
Trump criticizes the 2015 Iran Nuclear Deal, from which he withdrew in 2018. “The DEAL that we are making with Iran will be FAR BETTER than the JCPOA,” he posted on Truth Social, calling the original agreement one of the worst for U.S. security as it permitted uranium enrichment nearing nuclear breakout levels.
Pressure for Negotiations Mounts
Trump tells radio host John Fredericks that Iran “is going to negotiate.” “If they don’t, they’re going to see problems like they’ve never seen before,” he warns, expressing hope for a fair deal to rebuild Iran’s economy.
Iran Weighs Diplomatic Options
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi informs Pakistani counterpart Ishaq Dar that Tehran considers all aspects and will decide on next steps. Iran thanks Pakistan for mediation but cites ongoing ceasefire violations as a barrier.
The two-week ceasefire began April 7. A Pakistani source notes expiry at 8 p.m. ET Wednesday, or 3:30 a.m. Thursday Iran time.
