‘Lift the blockade’: Iran sets condition for round two of peace talks in Pakistan

Iran has set a clear precondition for resuming negotiations with the United States, with its UN Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani stating that talks can only proceed if Washington lifts its naval blockade.In an interview cited by Tasnim News Agency, Iravani said the blockade amounts to a violation of the ceasefire and must be removed before any diplomatic engagement. “The naval blockade of the United States… is a violation of the ceasefire. And we told them that they should break this blockade… as soon as they break this blockade, I think that the next round of the negotiation will take place,” he said.

He added that Iran remains open to dialogue but warned it is equally prepared for conflict. “If they want to sit on table and discuss… they will find us ready. If they want to go to the war, in this case also Iran is ready,” Iravani said.

Ceasefire extended, mistrust persists

The remarks come amid a fragile ceasefire extension announced by US President Donald Trump, who said the truce would continue to allow time for negotiations. However, as reported AP, uncertainty remains over the next round of talks, with both sides warning of renewed fighting if no agreement is reached.Trump has maintained that the blockade will continue, arguing it is necessary to pressure Iran. He also claimed Tehran privately wants the Strait of Hormuz reopened, saying Iran is losing “USD 500 million a day” due to the disruption, as per ANI.

Strait tensions rise, military warnings intensify

Tensions around the Strait of Hormuz remain high, with the vital waterway at the centre of the conflict. ANI reported that a container ship was recently fired upon by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, sustaining heavy damage, even as no casualties were reported.Iran has defended such actions, saying vessels ignored warnings, while also signalling readiness for escalation. As reported Al Jazeera, the Revolutionary Guard has warned it will “inflict crushing blows” on its enemies in case of renewed conflict.With the blockade still in place and deep mistrust on both sides, the path to diplomacy remains uncertain, while risks to global energy supply and maritime security continue to grow.