US and Iran remain far apart in talks over the Strait of Hormuz

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf Says Country Fully Prepared for US Hostilities

Tehran, Iran - Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that his country is “fully prepared” to resume hostilities with the United States at any moment. This comes as negotiations between the two nations continue, but a deal remains elusive.

In a nationally televised address on Saturday night, Ghalibaf acknowledged progress made in talks, but emphasized that significant gaps and fundamental points remain unresolved. He also criticized the US for imposing restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran had previously reopened.

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian echoed similar sentiments, saying that US President Donald Trump cannot justify depriving Tehran of its “nuclear rights.” The future of Iran’s nuclear program and the Strait of Hormuz are key sticking points in the negotiations.

On Sunday, Iranian officials re-imposed restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz, citing the ongoing naval blockade of Iranian ports by the US. Ghalibaf described this move as a response to what he called “ignorant” and “foolish” US actions.

Iranian forces are reportedly “fully prepared” for potential hostilities, according to officials. The Strait of Hormuz, which handles 20% of global oil trade, has been used by Iranian officials as a pressure point in negotiations.

Mediators have pushed for a second round of talks between the US and Iran, but no date has been set until both sides agree on a “framework of understanding.” The White House had previously stated that another round would likely take place in Islamabad.

Source: Al Jazeera