Iran recloses Strait of Hormuz while Trump remains optimistic on a deal

Iran announced on Saturday that it has reimposed control over the Strait of Hormuz, reversing a decision to reopen the strategic waterway just one day earlier. The Iranian military confirmed that merchant vessels were notified via radio by the Iranian navy that the strait is closed again and no ships are authorized to pass through. This decision complicates diplomatic efforts to end the ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States, as the strait previously handled approximately 20% of global oil transit. Despite the renewed closure, Pakistan-mediated negotiations between the two countries are reportedly ongoing. Iran's Supreme National Security Council stated that following Pakistani mediation, the United States has presented new proposals that Iran is currently considering but has not yet responded to. The content of these proposals remains undisclosed. Earlier, US President Donald Trump announced that "very good conversations" are taking place with Iran, though he insisted that Tehran cannot blackmail Washington and warned that US airstrikes on Iranian targets could resume if no peace agreement is reached before the current ceasefire expires next Wednesday. The Iranian Armed Forces stated that the strait remains under strict control and will continue to be blocked as long as the American naval blockade of Iranian ports remains in effect. Trump claimed that Iran lacks the military capabilities to pressure his administration, stating that the country has no functioning navy, air force, or effective leadership. He suggested that the situation in Iran could be characterized as "forced regime change." Iranian sources indicated that Tehran has refused to engage in new rounds of negotiations with Washington, citing what they describe as excessive demands from the United States.