ISLAMABAD (MNN); Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Ghalibaf has stated that Tehran will not engage in negotiations under threats, indicating that the country is preparing new military capabilities in case diplomatic efforts fail.
He accused US President Donald Trump of attempting to turn negotiations into a “surrender” scenario by imposing a blockade and violating the ceasefire.
Meanwhile, President Trump has signalled that the current ceasefire with Iran, initially set to expire on April 21, may not be extended if no agreement is reached.
While he suggested the truce could run until Wednesday evening Washington time, he termed an extension “highly unlikely” without progress in talks.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, in a conversation with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, criticised what he described as “illegal actions” and contradictory positions by the United States, stating that such behaviour undermines claims of diplomacy. He emphasised that Iran would closely monitor developments and take decisions to safeguard its national interests.
President Trump, in multiple social media statements, defended the US naval blockade of Iranian ports, saying it would remain in place until a deal is finalised.
He claimed the blockade is causing Iran significant economic losses, estimating daily losses of $500 million. Trump also said he is under no pressure to reach a deal but expects an agreement to materialise relatively soon.
Reports indicate that US Vice President JD Vance is expected to visit Pakistan as preparations continue for another round of talks. Pakistan is gearing up to host renewed negotiations despite rising tensions, including a recent US seizure of an Iranian cargo vessel near the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has vowed to respond to.
Iran has also reported a significant rise in casualties, with at least 3,375 deaths since the conflict began, further underscoring the urgency of diplomatic efforts.
