Iran claims Trump’s ceasefire extension is a 'ploy for surprise strike'

Tasnim news agency reports Tehran did not request the ceasefire extension announced by Trump and suspects it may be a deception to enable future US or Israeli strikes.

The Iranian news agency Tasnim reported on Tuesday night that Iran did not ask to extend the ceasefire with the US, following the announcement by US President Donald Trump on the matter. According to the report, Iran is not ruling out the possibility that everything, including the extension of the ceasefire, is a deception by Trump. The Iranian news agency brought up the possibility that Trump might announce an extension, but that the United States or Israel could later carry out strikes in Iran.

Tasnim cited information indicating that Iranian officials are closely monitoring such a possibility and that Iran does not underestimate such a scenario. Meanwhile, an adviser to Iran’s parliament speaker and top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said, according to Reuters, that Trump’s ceasefire extension is a “ploy to buy time" for a surprise strike.

The adviser said that the continuation of the US blockade on Iranian ports was “no different from bombardment and must be met with a military response". Trump announced earlier on Tuesday that the ceasefire in Iran would be extended for an unspecified amount of time, in order to allow the Iranian leadership time to submit a proposal for a deal. In a post on Truth Social, Trump made clear that the US naval blockade will remain in place until an Iranian proposal is submitted.

"Based on the fact that the Government of Iran is seriously fractured, not unexpectedly so and, upon the request of Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, of Pakistan, we have been asked to hold our Attack on the Country of Iran until such time as their leaders and representatives can come up with a unified proposal," Trump wrote. (Read More)

Opposition to US talks grows in Tehran as ceasefire deadline nears

Mounting opposition to negotiations with Washington in Tehran is casting doubt over whether Iran will proceed with a new round of talks with the United States in Islamabad as the ceasefire deadline approaches. Iranian officials and state media have increasingly emphasized a lack of interest in continuing negotiations. State television has claimed that a majority of Iranians oppose further talks, a narrative reinforced by coverage from Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)-affiliated outlets including Fars News Agency and Tasnim News Agency.

Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, who led Iran’s delegation in the first round of talks, struck a defiant tone earlier this week, saying Tehran would not accept negotiations “under the shadow of threats” and had spent the past two weeks preparing “to reveal new cards on the battlefield.” Ali Abdollahi, commander of Iran's Khatam al-Anbia Central Headquarters, warned that Iranian forces are prepared to deliver an “immediate and decisive response” to any violation of agreements or commitments. Abdollah Haji-Sadeghi, the Supreme Leader’s representative to the IRGC, said “there are no negotiations for now,” adding: “We will negotiate whenever the enemy accepts our conditions.”

On the US side, rhetoric has also hardened. President Donald Trump told CNBC on Tuesday that he does not intend to extend the ceasefire and that Washington is prepared for a military approach. According to the Washington Post, Vice President J. D. Vance’s planned trip to Islamabad has been postponed. Political activist Ali Gholhaki, considered close to Ghalibaf, argued that negotiations in Islamabad should only occur if the United States ends its naval blockade and moderates its nuclear demands. Hardline commentator Foad Izadi was even more explicit, saying in an interview that entering negotiations now would be a mistake.

“We must raise the cost of this war to a significant level,” he said. “Wars ultimately end with negotiations, but they have not yet paid the expected price.” Opposition to talks has also surfaced within Iran’s parliament. Vahid Ahmadi reaffirmed Iran’s right to uranium enrichment under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, stating that enriched materials would “under no circumstances” be removed from the country. State television also aired footage of a pro-government rally where participants chanted “Death to compromisers.” A television host claimed that 87% of Iranians believe the war should continue—an assertion critics say cannot be independently verified. Despite the hardline chorus, some voices have warned against abandoning diplomacy. (Read more)

If they seek war, we are ready...': Iran sets condition for talks in Pakistan after Trump's ceasefire extension

Iran says it will join talks in Islamabad only if the US ends its naval blockade, calling it a ceasefire violation. As Trump extends the truce, Tehran remains sceptical, citing shifting US demands, while tensions rise and uncertainty surrounds peace negotiations.

Iran's Condition For Talks

Iran has set a condition for attending the talks in Pakistan to end the war with Iran. Iran's United Nations (UN) envoy Amir Saeid Iravani has said that negotiations will be held in Pakistan’s capital once the United States ends its blockade of Iranian ports. His comments came as US President Donald Trump extended the ceasefire with a hope that Tehran would submit a proposal to end the conflict permanently. The Iranian envoy said that United States must halt its ‘violation of the ceasefire.’ The 10-day ceasefire was to end on Apr 22.So far, no senior Iranian officials—including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi — have responded to the extended ceasefire.

What Is The Condition?

In a statement to Iranian media IRNA and Tasnim News agency, Iravani said, "As soon as Washington ends the naval blockade, I think the next round of negotiations will be held in Islamabad. "The United States must halt its ‘violation of the ceasefire’ before any new round of negotiations. We have not been the initiator of military aggression. If they seek a political solution, we are ready. If they seek war, Iran is ready for that as well...When that happens, the next round of negotiations will take place in Islamabad." He warned, "If the US wants a political solution, they are ready, if they want war then Iran is also ready." Additionally, Mahdi Mohammadi, a senior adviser to Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, has mocked America saying ceasefire extension means "nothing" because the “losing side cannot dictate terms.” He termed the ceasefire extension as a ploy “to buy time for a surprise strike.”

What We Know About Iran-US Talks In Pakistan?

The uncertainty around the peace talks in Pakistan's Islamabad continues. The White House said in a statement that Vice President JD Vance and the US negotiating delegation would not be travelling to Pakistan. Iran has expressed its doubt about the ceasefire talks stating that it could be a "ploy for surprise strikes" on the country. But high-level security is in place in Pakistan, with administration deploying over 20,000 security personnel in and around Rawalpindi and Islamabad. (Read More)

Report: Israel doubts prospects of Iran deal, coordinated potential attack plans with US

Israel is doubtful that a deal will be reached between Iran and the United States in the expected talks between them and is jointly preparing with Washington for the war’s resumption, a senior security official tells the Kan public broadcaster.  “The Iranians are trying to stall for time and are speaking in multiple voices. We and the Americans are coordinated and ready to resume the war immediately,” the official says, as Iran is yet to decide whether it will attend the second round of talks in Islamabad before the current two-week ceasefire ends.

Israel and the US have been preparing for a resumption of the war since the ceasefire began, sources familiar with the matter tell the Hebrew network, including conducting exercises involving fighter jets and refueling tankers across the Middle East.

During the visit of CENTCOM chief Adm. Brad Cooper to Israel last week, joint plans and a target bank were approved, including strikes on national and energy infrastructure sites across Iran, according to the report. These attacks would be intended to apply further pressure on the Iranians to agree to relinquish their nuclear program and enriched uranium, the report adds. (Source)

At West Bank event, Smotrich declares Israel will rebuild Gaza settlements, fulfilling ‘prophecies’

Israel will return to the Gush Katif settlement bloc abandoned during the 2005 disengagement from Gaza, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich declares during an Independence Day event in the West Bank settlement of Brukhin, during which he praises the current government for “leading a true revolution” by announcing “no fewer than 103 new settlements in Judea and Samaria.”

Among the settlements approved by the government were Homesh, Sa-Nur, Ganim, and Kadim, which were evacuated during the disengagement, and their reestablishment is an “historical correction of the injustice of the expulsion,” Smotrich declares, stating that “we have returned home, and this time forever.”

“And just as we returned to Northern Samaria, we shall also return to Gush Katif,” he adds, citing Jeremiah’s prophecy of Israel’s return to its land, and stating that “today, here in Samaria, the prophecies of consolation are no longer a dream but the view from the window. The prophecies are taking shape in cranes and tractors, in agriculture and homes, and in boys and girls playing in the streets.” “We are not just reading the prophecies, we are privileged to be the generation that fulfills them,” he says, praising the government for its military and economic achievements.

Smotrich’s speech comes two days after he called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to fully occupy and settle the Gaza Strip, insisting that the end of the war against Hamas in Gaza must be accompanied by territorial expansion during a ceremony marking the resettlement of the West Bank town of Sa-Nur. Despite Smotrich’s proclamations, a return to settlement in Gaza is strongly opposed by the US and remains highly unlikely in the foreseeable future. (Source)

Israel will face resistance if troops stay in Lebanon, Lebanese Parliament Speaker says

"It [Israel] will smell the scent of resistance every day," said Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, Lebanon's most senior Shi'ite statesman and a Hezbollah ally. Lebanon’s Parliament Speaker warned on Tuesday that Israeli forces in parts of the country's south would face resistance if they fail to withdraw, signaling a risk of renewed confrontation ahead of US-mediated talks this week.

A 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon's Hezbollah mediated by Washington came into effect on Thursday, but Israeli forces remain deployed in a belt of Lebanese land 5-10 km deep along the entire border. Israel has said it aims to create a buffer zone to shield northern Israel from attacks by Hezbollah, an Iran-backed Shi'ite Muslim terrorist group.

On Thursday, the US will host ambassador-level talks between Israel and Lebanon, which were dragged into war on March 2 when Hezbollah opened fire in support of Tehran in the regional conflict. Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, Lebanon's most senior Shi'ite statesman and a Hezbollah ally, told Lebanese newspaper al-Joumhouria that Lebanon could not tolerate losing a meter of land.

If Israel "maintains its occupation, whether of areas, positions, or by drawing yellow lines, it will smell the scent of resistance every day," said Berri, leader of the Shi'ite Amal Movement. The IDF and Minister Benjamin Netanyahu both referred to Israel's deployment line in Lebanon as the "Yellow Line" last week - the same term used by Israel for its deployment line in Gaza. Israeli officials have since refrained from describing it in those terms, instead calling it the "Forward Defense Line," marked on a military map published on Sunday, which also included a "naval forward defense area" extending from Lebanon's coast to the sea. (Read More)

IDF says Hezbollah breached truce, launching rockets at troops, drone at Israel

The Hezbollah terror group violated a ceasefire in Lebanon on Tuesday by firing several rockets at Israeli troops stationed in the south of the country, as well as launching a drone at Israel, the military said. Hezbollah took responsibility for the attacks, which it claimed were in response to Israeli violations of the ceasefire. According to the Israel Defense Forces, Hezbollah fired several rockets toward troops stationed in the Rab al-Thalathine area, within an Israeli-held security zone.

The IDF said that it struck the launcher used in the attack within a few minutes. Separately, the IDF said that sirens that sounded in the communities of Kfar Yuval and Ma’ayan Baruch on the Lebanon border were not false alarms as it had initially reported. Following an examination, the IDF said the alerts were triggered in the border communities due to the interception of a drone that was launched from Lebanon. The drone was shot down before crossing the border, according to the military. The IDF said the attacks were “blatant violations of the ceasefire agreement.” No injuries were reported.

In a statement, Hezbollah said it targeted an Israeli artillery position in the northern border community of Kfar Giladi with a rocket barrage and attack drones. Hezbollah claimed to have documented over 200 Israeli violations of the ceasefire since it took effect on Friday. The terror group said the attacks on the IDF were carried out in response to those violations and its “right to resist occupation and repel it.”  (Ed note: The area of the Rab al-Thalathine is about 9 to 12 miles directly north of the Sea of Galilee.)  (Read More)

Trump announces: Ceasefire extended until Iran submits a proposal

Trump announces the extension of the ceasefire with Iran until its fractured leadership submits a unified deal proposal. The US naval blockade remains firmly in place.

US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that the ceasefire in Iran would be extended for an unspecified amount of time, in order to allow the Iranian leadership time to submit a proposal for a deal. In a post on Truth Social, Trump made clear that the US naval blockade will remain in place until an Iranian proposal is submitted.

"Based on the fact that the Government of Iran is seriously fractured, not unexpectedly so and, upon the request of Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, of Pakistan, we have been asked to hold our Attack on the Country of Iran until such time as their leaders and representatives can come up with a unified proposal," Trump wrote.

“I have therefore directed our Military to continue the Blockade and, in all other respects, remain ready and able, and will therefore extend the Ceasefire until such time as their proposal is submitted, and discussions are concluded, one way or the other," he added. Trump’s announcement followed a New York Times report stating that an expected trip by Vice President JD Vance to Pakistan for a second round of talks with Iran has been put on hold.

The postponement came after Tehran failed to respond to the latest US negotiating positions, a US official with knowledge of the situation told the Times. A senior Iranian official told the Reuters news agency later on Tuesday that Pakistan has yet to persuade the US to lift its naval blockade of Iranian ports near the Strait of Hormuz. (Read More)

Iranian Delegation Has Not Departed for Islamabad as US-Iran Talks Hang in Balance

Pakistan continues its mediation efforts, but the absence of the Iranian team on the scheduled day adds to the brinkmanship surrounding these high-stakes talks - the first direct US-Iran negotiations in decades.

As the fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran approaches its expiration, Iranian state television has confirmed that no Iranian delegation has departed for Islamabad, directly contradicting earlier expectations of renewed talks in Pakistan today. According to an on-screen alert broadcast by IRIB (Iranian state TV) on Tuesday afternoon local time, “no delegation from Iran has visited Islamabad so far,” and no team, primary, secondary, or follow-up, has left Tehran.

This comes hours after reports suggested an Iranian delegation, possibly including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, would arrive in the Pakistani capital on Tuesday morning for a second round of Pakistan-brokered negotiations with the US. Mounting Uncertainty Ahead of Ceasefire Deadline. 

* Pakistani authorities had been preparing for high-level talks, with tight security measures already in place in Islamabad.  

* The US side, led by Vice President JD Vance, had signaled plans to proceed, but as of now, diplomatic momentum has stalled.Iranian officials and state-linked media (including Tasnim) have repeatedly cited the ongoing US naval presence and “unreasonable demands” as reasons for hesitation, stating there is “currently no decision” to send a team while the blockade remains in effect.

The initial round of talks in Islamabad earlier this month produced a temporary ceasefire, but no permanent agreement. With the truce reportedly set to expire on Wednesday night (Washington time), failure to resume negotiations raises fears of renewed escalation, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz where tensions have flared again. Iran has conditioned any further engagement on the lifting of US measures and a more “realistic” American approach. Meanwhile, US officials have described the situation as critical, with President Trump previously warning that a deal is unlikely without significant concessions from Tehran. (Ed note: Could it be that Tehran is holding back because they are thinking that President Trump will crack?  Does Tehran believe the Media and Liberals that are screaming that "Trump is crazy, and they must remove him?")      (Source)

Vance to travel to Islamabad, Iranian delegation gets reported approval from supreme leader - Axios

US Vice President JD Vance is expected to leave for potential peace talks with Iran in Islamabad on Tuesday morning, Axios reported early Tuesday, citing three US sources. Earlier on Monday, US President Donald Trump told theNew York Post that Vance and his delegation were already en route to Pakistan, but conflicting sources claimed the vice president was still in the US. Axios reported that the White House first waited for a signal from Tehran that an Iranian delegation would also be joining.

According to a source with knowledge cited by Axios, the Iranian negotiating team hesitated due to pressure from the IRGC to hold a stronger line and to refuse talks without an end to the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian team was urged to join the meeting by mediators from Pakistan, Egypt, and Turkey, Axios reported, but, according to the source, didn't leave until they received approval from Iran's supreme leader.

The Iranian delegation's plan to travel to Islamabad was also reported earlier on Monday by the New York Times, citing two Iranian officials. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammed-Bagher Ghalibaf is expected to lead the delegation. Vance's delegation is expected to include special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner. (Source)

'We have prepared to reveal new cards on the battlefield': Ghalibaf warns Trump as ceasefire nears deadline

Iran rejects talks under pressure as Ghalibaf accuses Trump of coercion, while ceasefire tensions and US-Iran negotiations remain uncertain≥.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Ghalibaf said that US President Donald Trump is attempting to reshape negotiations into coercion, warning that Tehran rejects talks conducted under pressure. President Donald Trump “seeks to turn this negotiating table— in his own imagination— into a table of surrender or to justify renewed warmongering,” Ghalibaf said in a post on X on Monday (April 20). “We do not accept negotiations under the shadow of threats, and in the past two weeks, we have prepared to reveal new cards on the battlefield,” the post added.

Separately, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran is reviewing all options following discussions with Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, as tensions continue over a potential US-Iran ceasefire framework. Iran’s Foreign Ministry said the country “is taking all aspects into consideration” and will decide its next steps while continuing consultations. The ministry also thanked Pakistan for its “good offices and mediation” but accused the United States of undermining diplomacy through “provocative actions” and alleged ceasefire violations, including threats against Iranian commercial vessels. 

Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that diplomatic channels remain open despite uncertainty over the next round of talks between Washington and Tehran. Earlier, US President Donald Trump said he expects the ceasefire window with Iran to expire “Wednesday evening Washington time,” adding it is “highly unlikely” he would extend it without progress on a deal. (Source)

Iran diplomacy wobbles as factions compete to avoid looking soft on US

Apparent divisions over negotiations with the United States may have strengthened the most confrontational elements within Iran’s political landscape and facilitated the rise of new hardline actors.
Backed by the more uncompromising faction within the senior ranks of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), these emerging hardliners have been testing their ability to disrupt talks that already face significant obstacles.

Within the IRGC itself, commanders appear to be split into at least two camps. One faction, associated with IRGC Commander Ahmad Vahidi and Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) Secretary Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, is widely described by Iranian observers as favoring continuation of the conflict. The opposing faction aligns more closely with former IRGC Air Force commander and current Majles Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. He is believed to retain influence within the IRGC’s aerospace branch and to maintain ties to the household of Iran’s slain leader Ali Khamenei, including his son Mojtaba.

Despite their rivalry, both factions share a core objective: ensuring the survival of the Islamic Republic. Their disagreement lies in the methods and strategic direction needed to achieve that goal. Similar infighting existed before the latest war and under Ali Khamenei, but the absence of a figure with comparable authority appears to have widened the field to rival forces. Among civilian political actors, many have attempted to distance themselves from the ultraconservative Paydari Party, which has been the loudest anti-American voice in Tehran for some time. Yet their ideological and personal links to Paydari figures remain evident.

Even Ghalibaf, now seen by many as the de facto leader of Iran’s “pragmatic” camp, has referred to these actors as a radical militia. He has also hinted at their connections to Paydari-aligned figures such as former nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili and hardline lawmaker Amir Hossein Sabeti, both of whom journalists in Tehran accuse of enticing anti-talks rallies. Over the weekend, an X account identifying itself as “Fans of Saeed Jalili” sharply criticized Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, accusing them of falsely suggesting that their more moderate positions toward Washington had been endorsed by Mojtaba Khamenei. (Read More)

High Alert: IDF Prepares for Sudden Iranian Attack as Nuclear Negotiations Teeter

Israeli defense officials are maintaining peak readiness across all branches as the government prepares for a potential sudden attack by Iran or a state directed strike in the wake of failing nuclear negotiations.

As the window for a breakthrough in diplomatic negotiations with Iran appears to be narrowing, the Israeli defense establishment is operating under a state of heightened alert. With the possibility that the current nuclear talks may collapse entirely, the Israel Defense Forces, led by Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir, are conducting continuous, around the clock situational assessments to ensure the country is prepared for any sudden Iranian aggression.

The security situation remains fluid, as Israeli intelligence agencies, including Military Intelligence and the Mossad, work to provide the political echelon with a comprehensive picture of Iranian intentions. Despite ongoing monitoring, senior security sources indicate that there is currently no definitive information regarding the specific response expected from Tehran. However, there is growing skepticism within the defense community that the current regime, heavily influenced by extreme elements within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, would ever agree to a complete and verifiable surrender of its nuclear program or the transfer of its enriched uranium to a third party.

Security experts suggest that the current diplomatic framework may require additional, more significant leverage to change the regime's behavior. Meanwhile, the Trump administration is also grappling with internal divisions within the Iranian government, which further complicate the path toward a stable agreement. Contrary to some external reports, the Israeli government remains fully updated on the details of the American negotiations, allowing for close coordination between Washington and Jerusalem. (Read More)

New round of Israel-Lebanon talks set for Thursday as US said trying to extend truce

A second round of direct talks between Israel and Lebanon will take place on Thursday, an Israeli and a US official tell The Times of Israel on Monday. The meeting, the official said, will take place at the State Department in Washington, and will include staffers from the Israeli, Lebanese, and US sides. Israel will be represented by its envoy to the US, and Lebanon by its former ambassador to Washington, Simon Karam.

“The United States welcomes the productive engagement that began on April 14,” a State Department official told The Times of Israel, confirming that the US will host a second round of talks on Thursday. “We will continue to facilitate direct, good-faith discussions between the two governments.”Last Tuesday, Leiter and Lebanon’s current envoy in the US, Nada Hamadeh Moawad, met for roughly two hours, marking the highest-level direct talks to date between Israeli and Lebanese officials. The talks were mediated by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other American diplomats.

Thursday’s talks will take place days before a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and the Lebanese terror group Hezbollah is set to expire. But Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri said on Monday, following a meeting with US Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa, that the US was making an effort to extend the truce, according to the Asharq al-Awsat outlet. A lawmaker for Hezbollah, which is backed by Iran and is sworn to Israel’s destruction, castigated the direct talks and vowed to continue “resistance” against Israeli troops’ presence in the south of the country. He also vowed that his terror group would not lay down its weapons, something both Israel and the Lebanese government have demanded. (Read More)

Officials: Iran could soon rebuild ballistic missile system

Israeli officials warn Iran's ballistic missile array not part of negotiations, warn failure to address issue may lead to another round of fighting.

Israeli officials are concerned that Iran could restore its ballistic missile array within a relatively short period if the issue is not addressed in the context of a future agreement. According to an IDF Intelligence Directorate assessment, subject to censorship limitations, Iran could rebuild its capabilities within “very few years."

Security officials warn that failure to address the missile issue could lead to another round of fighting with Iran in the near future. The concern is that any emerging agreements may not include this central component.

A senior Israeli official told Army Radio that “the missile issue is currently not on the negotiating table. That is troubling."  (Source)

Quietly Rearming: The Disturbing Iranian Move During the Ceasefire

While the world follows the mediation talks in Pakistan, the commander of the Revolutionary Guard's Air Force reveals data on an unprecedented rate of armament. As international mediators in Islamabad work to stabilize a fragile ceasefire, Tehran is projecting a defiant image of its military reality. General Seyed Majid Mousavi, commander of the IRGC Aerospace Force, declared that Iran has utilized the days of quiet to replenish its stockpiles of missiles and drones at a pace exceeding pre-war levels.

A dramatic video released by the "War Media" center showcased underground, bomb-proof storage facilities being filled with advanced technological equipment. Mousavi directed sharp criticism toward the United States, claiming that while Iran relies on domestic technology and rapid local production, "the enemy" is forced to import ammunition "drop by drop" from across the world and cannot keep up with Iran's pace of rearmament.

These statements come amid a severe economic crisis in Iran, including the loss of over one million jobs and ongoing internet outages affecting millions of citizens. Despite internal pressure and sanctions, Tehran continues to use the Strait of Hormuz as a strategic bargaining chip, declaring it will not hesitate to respond forcefully to any "piracy" by the U.S. (Source)

Trump says talks to take place Tuesday, as Iran says it has ‘no plans’ to attend

US president says he’s optimistic on prospects for deal, threatens to blow up bridges and power plants if Tehran doesn’t agree to demands; Netanyahu says war is ‘not over yet’.

US President Donald Trump said Sunday that talks with Iran on extending the ceasefire would resume on Tuesday, while the Islamic Republic indicated it was not planning to send a delegation and was pessimistic about the prospects of the talks. Trump told Fox News that White House envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff would be heading to the Pakistani capital Islamabad for the negotiations, and if Tehran does not agree to a deal, the whole of Iran would be “blown up.”

He told the outlet that bridges and power plants in Iran would be targeted, repeating his threat to target civilian infrastructure — plans that appeared to have been halted after the ceasefire was reached nearly two weeks ago. The break in the fighting is set to expire on Wednesday if an extension is not agreed upon.Trump told Fox he is demanding that Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz and give up its highly enriched uranium, a demand Tehran has not agreed to.

Iran has consistently denied seeking to acquire nuclear weapons. However, it enriched uranium to levels that have no peaceful application, obstructed international inspectors from checking its nuclear facilities, and expanded its ballistic missile capabilities, all while repeatedly threatening over the years to annihilate Israel. Contrary to Trump’s claim, Iranian state media reported on Sunday night that Tehran was not planning to take part in new talks. “There are currently no plans to participate in the next round of Iran-US talks,” state broadcaster IRIB said, citing Iranian sources. (Read More)

Trump says US took control of Iranian cargo ship that tried to break blockade

US President Donald Trump announces that the US has taken custody of an Iranian cargo ship that attempted to pass a blockade that Washington has been maintaining around Iranian ports. “Today, an Iranian-flagged cargo ship named TOUSKA — nearly 900 feet long and weighing almost as much as an aircraft carrier — tried to get past our naval blockade, and it did not go well for them,” Trump claims in a Truth Social post.

“The US Navy guided missile destroyer USS SPRUANCE intercepted the TOUSKA in the Gulf of Oman, and gave [it a] fair warning to stop,” Trump continues. “The Iranian crew refused to listen, so our navy ship stopped them right in their tracks by blowing a hole in the engineer room. Right now, US Marines have custody of the vessel.” “The TOUSKA is under US Treasury sanctions because of [its] prior history of illegal activity. We have full custody of the ship, and are seeing what’s on board!” the US president adds. (Source)

Ghalibaf defends Iran-US talks amid hardline backlash

Iran’s lead negotiator and parliament speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf defended indirect talks with the United States in a televised interview Saturday after hardline critics accused him of “betrayal” and even hinted at a “coup” over the negotiations in Islamabad. The backlash, which has intensified in recent days across hardline media and social platforms, prompted Ghalibaf to sit for a lengthy interview on state television aimed largely at persuading critics who reject any form of diplomacy and advocate continued confrontation.

In the interview, Ghalibaf framed negotiations not as a retreat but as a continuation of the conflict by other means. Diplomacy, he said, is neither a withdrawal from Iran’s demands nor separate from the battlefield, but a way to consolidate military gains and translate them into political outcomes and lasting peace. Most notably, perhaps, he cautioned against exaggerating Iran’s leverage, stressing that US military superiority and capabilities should not be underestimated.

Hardline critics have intensified attacks on Ghalibaf, particularly on domestic social media platforms such as Eitaa, accusing him of ignoring red lines set by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and signaling weakness toward the United States. One critic wrote in a post that “there is no good in negotiation except harm,” adding that Ghalibaf’s remarks suggested an optimism about progress in the talks that was “worrying.” Another post went further, calling on the Revolutionary Guard to intervene and stop what it described as Ghalibaf’s “betrayal.”

Similar rhetoric has surfaced in nighttime gatherings by pro-government supporters, where speakers denounce negotiations and potential concessions—such as handing over enriched nuclear material, a core US demand—and chant slogans including “Death to compromisers.” Ghalibaf did emphasize his personal commitment, declaring that for him there is no distinction between the battlefield and the negotiating table and that he is ready to sacrifice “both my life and my reputation” for “the people to attain their rights.” The controversy widened after a social media account linked to ultrahardliner Saeed Jalili, a longtime political rival of Ghalibaf and a member of Iran’s national security council, published a post with the hashtag “coup plotter.” (Read More)

Iran's IRGC Quds Force head Qaani visits Baghdad, meets Shi'ite political, militia leaders - report

Iran's Quds Force head Esmail Qaani visited Baghdad to discuss Iraq's next prime minister and the future of Shi'ite militias amid US sanctions.

The head of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force, Esmail Qaani, visited Baghdad and held talks with political and militia leaders amid unresolved negotiations over who should be the next Iraqi prime minister, a source told Iraqi outlet Shafaq News on Saturday. This would represent Qaani's first visit outside of Iran since Operation Roaring Lion began on February 28. According to Agence France-Presse, Qaani's visit began on April 8.

Qaani, whose Quds Force is the main backer of the Shi'ite militias, met first with militia leaders before separately meeting with leaders of the Shi'ite Coordination Framework, which is a coalition of pro-Iran Shi'ite parties that forms the largest bloc within Baghdad's parliament. According to Shafaq's source, Qaani was attempting to reach an agreement on a consensus candidate to nominate as the prime minister.

Discussions also included the future of the terror militias, including proposals to integrate them into state security institutions and separate political and armed wings, Shafaq reported. The coordination framework initially sought to support Nouri al-Maliki as prime minister following January's elections, but US President Donald Trump emphasized at the time that his return to power would lead Washington to cut off aid. (Ed note: Is the IRGC's Qaani visiting Iraq to inquire if the Iraqi Shi'ite militias are prepared to attack Israel if directed?)   (Read More)

WATCH: IDF strikes ready-to-fire Hezbollah launcher in southern Lebanon

The IDF additionally released a warning to civilians in southern Lebanon, urging them not to move south of certain villages due to ongoing operations against Hezbollah. Overnight, the IDF struck a loaded, ready-to-fire Hezbollah launcher in Qalawiyah, north of the IDF’s established Forward Defense Line in southern Lebanon, the military announced on Monday. The launcher posed an immediate threat to Israeli troops and civilians and was destroyed in self-defense, the IDF stated.

The military asserted that during the ongoing temporary ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, it will “continue to take the necessary measures in self-defense against threats, while ensuring the security of Israeli civilians and the soldiers deployed in the area.”

On Monday morning, the IDF released a warning to civilians in southern Lebanon on X/Twitter, urging them not to move south of certain villages along the Forward Defense Line due to ongoing operations against Hezbollah. Avichay Adraee, the IDF’s Arabic spokesperson, stated that, for safety reasons, Lebanese civilians are required to remain north of several villages until further notice. Civilians are also forbidden from approaching the Litani River area, as Israeli forces maintain positions in the area during the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire period, Adraee noted. (Ed note: Qalawiyah is located very close to Bint Jbeil in Lebanon.)  (Source)

IDF reveals Forward Defense Line in southern Lebanon

The IDF has established a Forward Defense Line in southern Lebanon, the military announced on Sunday, publishing a map of the new line on Telegram. "Five divisions, alongside Israeli Navy forces, are operating simultaneously south of the Forward Defense Line in southern Lebanon in order to dismantle Hezbollah terror infrastructure sites and to prevent direct threats to communities in northern Israel," the IDF said.

The announcement follows IDF action on Saturday in which several sites in southern Lebanon were targeted, with the military saying that the presence of Hezbollah operatives there was a violation of the ceasefire agreement. Lebanese media reported that Hezbollah saw the IDF attacks as a breach of the ceasefire agreement, with the terror group planning to notify Iran of the perceived violation.

In addition, US President Donald Trump said in a Truth Social post on Friday that he had prohibited any attacks by Israel against Lebanese targets. "Israel is prohibited from bombing Lebanon any longer,” said Trump, also confirming last week that the US will work with Lebanon separately to "deal with the Hezbollah situation in an appropriate manner.”Later on Saturday, the IDF announced that over 250 terrorists were killed and over 1,000 weapons and munitions were located and destroyed south of the Forward Defense Line. (Ed note: Great map. Click on the article to really study it. The city of TYRE is about 12 miles above the border of Israel, and the Litani River is about 5 miles above the city of TYRE.)  (Read More)

‘Who is he to deprive a nation ‌of its legal rights?’: Pezeshkian slams Trump for opposing Tehran’s nuclear programme

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned Donald Trump for opposing Iran’s nuclear program, asserting Tehran’s legal rights, while Pakistani security sources suggest a second round of US-Iran peace talks may occur by April 24.

Amid the ongoing speculation over the second round of US-Iran peace talks, the Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian criticised Donald Trump, saying the US president has no justification to deprive Iran of what he described as its lawful nuclear rights. In remarks reported by the Iranian Student News Agency, Pezeshkian said Washington continued to clash with Tehran over nuclear issues, but insisted that Iran’s position was grounded in its rights. “The US president says Iran should not make use of its nuclear rights, but he does not answer for what crime,” Pezeshkian was quoted as saying. “Who is he, after all, to deprive a nation of its legal rights?” he questioned.

He added that Iran was not seeking to escalate tensions. “Iran is not seeking to expand the war and has not started any conflict and will not do so. We have not attacked any country, and under the current circumstances we have no intention of attacking any side. We are only engaged in legitimate self-defence,” he said.Despite this assertion, Iran has carried out attacks across the region during the ongoing conflict, including strikes reported in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Iraq and Turkey, as well as the British overseas territory of Akrotiri and Dhekelia and the West Bank. Other alleged activity has been reported in Azerbaijan, with maritime targets said to include Thai-flagged vessels.

Pezeshkian also condemned attacks on civilians and scientific institutions. “The assassination of scientists, attacks on scientific centres, targeting innocent people and the killing of 168 schoolchildren have no justification, and no free human being in the world accepts such behaviour,” he said. Meanwhile, two Pakistani security sources told Al Jazeera that a new round of negotiations between the US and Iran is likely to take place before Friday (April 24). Speaking on condition of anonymity, they cited the arrival of two US C-17 Globemaster aircraft at Noor Khan Airbase in Rawalpindi, near Islamabad, as well as heightened security measures in the Pakistani capital. (Source)

Trump: Iran ‘got a little cute’ by blocking Hormuz again, but talks going ‘really well’

Iranian security council says it will hold strait until ‘war fully ends’; Egypt’s FM says Cairo, Islamabad working on US-Iran ‘final agreement’; report: US to seize Iran-linked ships worldwide.

US President Donald Trump said Saturday Iran “got a little cute” byreimposing its closure on the Strait of Hormuz earlier in the day, but insisted that the White House is in touch with Tehran and that the dialogue is “working out really well.” Israel, however, is preparing for the possibility that the talks will collapse and the situation in the strait will escalate, a source told the Kan public broadcaster. In addition, US forces are preparing to begin boarding and seizing Iran-linked ships in international waters across the globe, according to a Wall Street Journal report.

Iran said Saturday that “control of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state … under strict management and control of the armed forces,” as long as the US blockade of Iranian ports remained in effect. Iran’s security council further said that the strait will remain in Iranian control until “the war fully ends and lasting peace is achieved in the region.” Iran’s Supreme National Security Council said it had been presented with new American proposals during a recent visit by Pakistan’s army chief, who is serving as an intermediary with Washington. The council did not reveal what was in the proposals, but said that they were still under review. Further talks would require the US to abandon “excessive demands and adjust its requests to the realities on the ground,” it added.

Iran also fired on at least three tankers attempting to pass the waterway on Saturday, only a day after it announced that it was opening the strait in accordance with the ceasefire deal with the US. Confusion over the critical chokepoint threatened to deepen the energy crisis roiling the global economy and push the two countries toward renewed conflict, even as mediators expressed confidence that a new deal was within reach. Roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil passes through the strait and further limits would squeeze already constrained supply, driving prices higher once again. Briefing reporters in the White House, Trump downplayed the situation, insisting that dialogue with Iran was “working out really well” despite the closure of the strait. (Read More)

Iran Hormuz reversal exposes potential rift between regime leaders and hard-liners

Recordings shared with the WSJ of military pushback and maritime incidents indicate a potential internal split in Iran as tensions rise in Gulf waters.

A rapid reversal by Iran over statements regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz has exposed growing divisions between the country’s political leadership and its military hard-liners, recordings shared with The Wall Street Journal (WSJ )show, amid ongoing tensions in the Gulf and ceasefire-related diplomacy. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced on X on Friday that the Strait of Hormuz was “completely open,” in what was described by sources as an attempt to signal flexibility during sensitive negotiations involving the United States. The message reportedly drew immediate attention internationally, including a positive reaction from US President Donald Trump.

However, the announcement quickly triggered internal pushback in Tehran. A recording shared with the WSJ of a voice identifying itself as a member of the Revolutionary Guard’s naval forces broadcast a message over marine radio stating the strait remained closed and that ships required permission to pass. At the same time, the Tasnim news agency, which is affiliated with the Revolutionary Guard, criticized the foreign minister’s communication, saying, “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs should reconsider this type of communication.”

Iran later formally announced that the strait had been closed. The UK Maritime Trade Operations reported multiple maritime incidents in the region, including reports of gunfire directed at a tanker near Oman and damage to a containership after what was described as an unknown projectile, though no injuries were reported. The dispute highlighted tensions between Iran’s diplomatic channel and its military establishment, which has gained influence since the war began. A senior Iranian lawmaker, Morteza Mahmoudi, also called for Araghchi’s removal, accusing him of undermining Iran’s position and benefiting US interests. The episode echoes earlier internal disputes during the war, when senior Iranian officials were publicly contradicted by hard-line military elements following comments suggesting de-escalation. (Source)

IRGC calls foreign minister “idiot" in rare broadcast as Strait of Hormuz closed again

A leaked Iranian naval transmission reveals Revolutionary Guards openly insulting Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi while threatening to attack vessels attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz without approval.

An unusual recording from an Iranian naval communication network circulated on social media Saturday night, capturing members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) sharply criticizing Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi while announcing the renewed closure of the Strait of Hormuz. According to the broadcast, the IRGC Navy declared that the strategic waterway remains closed, contradicting earlier statements made by Araghchi indicating that maritime passage had been reopened. The message was transmitted over an Iranian maritime communication channel to vessels operating in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, only hours after political officials in Tehran signaled a possible easing of the naval blockade following a regional ceasefire.

In the recording, an IRGC unit identifying itself as “Sepandavi" addressed nearby ships, stating: “In the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, this is Iranian Sepandavi calling on Channel 16. The Strait of Hormuz is still closed. We will open it by order of our leader, Imam Khamenei, not by the tweets of some idiot." The IRGC message continued with a warning directed at foreign vessels, “If you want to pass through the strait, you must ask permission from Iranian Sepa navy. All vessels that have a connection to our enemies will be targeted if they try to pass the Strait of Hormuz."

The renewed closure follows a period of heightened tensions along key maritime routes, during which the international community anticipated a resumption of commercial shipping. Observers noted that the public insult directed at the foreign minister over an open communication channel is highly unusual, suggesting an effort by the IRGC to underscore its control over the strategic waterway, regardless of diplomatic initiatives led by Iran’s Foreign Ministry in ongoing talks with US officials in Islamabad. (Ed note: It looks like the "heightened tensions" between the IRGC and the diplomats may be coming to a head, and guess who is gaining control. Remember that the IRGC reports ONLY to the Ayatollah.)  (Source)

IRGC Fires on Indian Tankers in Strait of Hormuz, Closes Strait

UKMTO and CENTCOM have advised all commercial vessels to maintain a wide berth from Iranian territorial waters. The "completely open" status declared on April 17 is officially void.

Tensions spiked in the world's most critical oil chokepoint today after Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy opened fire on at least one Indian-flagged supertanker, forcing multiple vessels to turn back just hours after Tehran had signaled the strait was open. The incident involved the VLCC Sanmar Herald, an Indian-flagged very large crude carrier loaded with nearly 2 million barrels of Iraqi crude oil. A dramatic VHF radio recording captured the ship's crew pleading with IRGC forces: “Sepah Navy! Motor Tanker Sanmar Herald! You gave me clearance to go!! My name second on your list! You gave me clearance to go, you are FIRING now! Let me turn back!”

The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) confirmed that a tanker approximately 20 nautical miles northeast of Oman was approached by two IRGC gunboats without prior VHF challenge, after which shots were fired. The crew and vessel remained safe, with no reports of serious damage or injuries. A second Indian-flagged vessel, the bulk carrier Jag Arnav (carrying urea bound for India), was also reported in the vicinity and forced to reverse course.

Maritime tracking data showed the Sanmar Herald and other India-bound ships, including state-owned tankers Desh Vaibhav and Desh Vibhor, abruptly turning westward after attempting to transit eastward. At least four Indian-flagged vessels reversed direction, while one other (Desh Garima) successfully crossed earlier. This brings the number of Indian vessels currently held in the Persian Gulf to around 14. (Read More)

Iran claims it replenishes missile launchers faster than before Operation Roaring Lion - report

Additionally, a Saturday N12 News report stated that Israel’s security establishment had located missile launchers aimed at Israel, poised to strike if a ceasefire wasn't reached with Lebanon.

Iran claimed it is replenishing its missile and drone launchers at a higher speed than it did prior to the war with the US and Israel, the Revolutionary Guards Aerospace Force commander, Majid Mousavi, said in a video shared on social media on Sunday, according to Nournews. The Jerusalem Post could not verify the legitimacy of the footage. "They have lost this phase of the war! They have lost the Strait, Lebanon, and the region," Mousavi said.

Mousavi's statement was shared alongside an edited video of him inspecting an unspecified underground missile facility. The video also included footage of drones, missiles, and launchers inside underground facilities as well as ground missile launches. Mousavi also claimed that "Unlike Iran, the enemy has been unable to replenish its ammunition during the ceasefire."

While neither the US nor Israel has officially responded to these claims, a Saturday N12 News report stated that Israel’s security establishment had located missile launchers aimed at Israel, poised to strike if a ceasefire wasn't reached between Israel and Lebanon The threat from Iran was the motivation for US President Donald Trump's increased pressure on Israel to come to an agreement with Lebanon, and his Friday announcement that Israel is prohibited from “bombing Lebanon any longer,” according to the N12 report. (Read More)

Netanyahu shocked Trump 'prohibited' strikes on Lebanon, believes it inconsistent with ceasefire

Israel was surprised by US President Donald Trump’s announcement that the IDF is “prohibited” from continuing strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon, according to a Saturday Axios report. The report noted that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was “personally stunned and alarmed” by the post, and that Israeli officials sought clarification from the White House. This comes after Trump posted on Truth Social that Israel was prohibited from “bombing Lebanon any longer,” and that the US will work with Lebanon separately and “deal with the Hezbollah situation in an appropriate manner.”

The language implied that Trump was directly issuing an order to Israel, which would be unimaginable under other presidential administrations, Axios noted. Notably, according to the ceasefire agreement, Israel still has the right to take military action during the ceasefire, “in self-defense, at any time, against planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks.” However, because of the terminology Trump used, aides, including Israel’s Ambassador to the US, Yechiel Leiter, began investigating when and how Trump had changed course. The Israeli aides also stressed that Trump’s language appeared to contradict the ceasefire agreement.

In response to Axios, a US official said that “the president’s ceasefire agreement between Lebanon and Israel clearly states that Israel will not carry out any offensive military operations against Lebanese targets but preserves its right to self-defense against planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks.” Later, in a separate interview with Axios, Trump said that he wanted the IDF to stop striking Lebanon. “Israel has to stop. They can’t continue to blow buildings up. I am not gonna allow it,” he said. On Friday, Netanyahu said that a ceasefire was underway following an initial announcement on Thursday, and called it “an opportunity to make a historic peace agreement with Lebanon.” (Read More)

The new 'yellow line' in southern Lebanon

IDF declares 'yellow line' in southern Lebanon, duplicating concept used following ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza.

Since the ceasefire came into effect, IDF soldiers south of the "yellow line" in southern Lebanon have identified in several incidents in which terrorists violated the ceasefire understandings by approaching from north of the yellow line toward IDF soldiers, posing an immediate threat. Following their identification, and in order to remove the threat, the Israeli Air Force, together with ground forces, conducted precise strikes against the terrorists.

Artillery fire was carried out in support of the ground troops operating in the area, and terrorist infrastructure sites used to facilitate attacks were struck in response to the threats. Earlier on Saturday, IDF soldiers identified a terrorist cell that violated the ceasefire understandings and approached IDF soldiers operating south of the ''yellow line" in southern Lebanon, a defense line dedicated to preventing an imminent threat to Israel’s northern communities.

The approaching terrorists posed a threat to the troops. In a rapid operational response, aimed at removing the threat, the Israeli Air Force struck and eliminated the terrorists. Additionally, the IDF struck an underground shaft in the area south of the forward defense line, as well as Hezbollah terrorists who were identified entering it. A hit was identified. "The IDF is operating in accordance with the directives of the political echelon," a statement stressed. "

Accordingly, the IDF is authorized to take the necessary measures in self-defense against threats, while ensuring the security of Israeli civilians and the soldiers deployed in the area." "Actions taken in self-defense and to remove immediate threats are not restricted by the ceasefire. The IDF will not allow harm to Israeli civilians and IDF soldiers and will take all necessary measures to ensure their safety. "The IDF will continue to act to remove any threat to Israeli civilians and its troops." (Ed note: This "yellow line' in some areas extends up to the Litani River, and in other areas goes at least 6 miles north of the Israeli border.)   (Source)

Iran reverses course on reopening Strait of Hormuz, signals warning to US

Iran announced it is reimposing restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, reversing its decision to reopen the waterway after President Donald Trump said the move would not end the blockade, according to The Associated Press.

Iran's joint military command said Saturday that “control of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state... under strict management and control of the armed forces," adding that the restrictions will not be lifted as long as the U.S. continues to block Iranian ports. The announcement comes a few hours after Trump said the blockade "will remain in full force" until a deal is reached between Tehran and the U.S.  (Ed note: Two last minute articles from FOX NEWS, check them out.)

AND THE SECOND ARTICLE IS:  

Strait of Hormuz under 'full IRGC control,' Iran opens fire on at least one vessel: intel official. (Read More)

Trump: Iran agreed to everything, will hand over enriched uranium

President Trump tells CBS News that Iran has agreed to surrender its enriched uranium to the United States and cease support for terror groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.

US President Donald Trump told CBS News in a phone interview on Friday that Iran has "agreed to everything" and will cooperate with the United States to remove its enriched uranium from the country. Trump made clear that the operation will not involve American ground troops. When asked who would retrieve the material, he responded only with "our people." "No. No troops," he said. "We'll go down and get it with them, and then we'll take it. We'll be getting it together because by that time, we'll have an agreement and there's no need for fighting when there's an agreement. Nice right? That's better. We would have done it the other way if we had to." The President added that the enriched uranium would ultimately be brought to the United States.

"Our people, together with the Iranians, are going to work together to go get it. And then we'll take it to the United States," he said. Trump further stated that Iran has agreed to stop backing proxy terrorist groups, including Hezbollah and Hamas. When asked about the timing of an official announcement, the president said the two sides are scheduled to meet this weekend. He added that the United States would maintain its blockade "until we get it done."

Trump refuted an earlier Axios report, which statedthat the Trump administration was discussing the possible release of $20 billion in frozen Iranian assets in exchange for the nuclear stockpile. "No, we are not paying 10 cents," he said firmly. On Thursday, Trump said that the war in Iran should be coming to an end “pretty soon".“We're doing very well, and I will say the war in Iran is going along swimmingly, we can do whatever we want, and it should be ending pretty soon," the President stated at an event in Las Vegas. (Source)

Iran denies claim that US will retrieve enriched uranium, accuses Trump of lies

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf asserted that the US "did not win the war with these lies," adding that "they will certainly not get anywhere in negotiations either.”

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf accused US President Donald Trump of making several false claims regarding the status of the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s enriched uranium in a post on X/Twitter in the early morning hours of Saturday. “The President of the United States made seven claims in one hour, all seven of which were false,” Ghalibaf wrote. “They did not win the war with these lies, and they will certainly not get anywhere in negotiations either.”

Ghalibaf urged all to “read the real and accurate news of the negotiations in the recent interview of the Foreign Ministry spokesman,” in which a Foreign Ministry spokesman claimed that Iran will not transfer its enriched uranium anywhere, contrary to earlier Trump claims that Iran had agreed to do so. "Iran's enriched uranium is not going to be transferred anywhere; transferring uranium to the United States has not been an option for us," Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said during an interview with Iranian state media.

Trump earlier told Reuters that Iran's "nuclear dust" would be retrieved "very soon." "We're going to get it together. We're going to go in with Iran, at a nice leisurely pace, and go down and start excavating with big machinery... We'll bring it back to the United States," Trump added.Ghalibaf also disputed Trump’s assertion that Iran had announced that the Strait of Hormuz was “fully opened and ready for full passage.” (Read More)