Trump says he will “consider” concerns over US–Iran maritime blockade

A fragile ceasefire between the United States and Iran appeared increasingly uncertain on April 20 after President Donald Trump said he would “consider” concerns raised over a reported US naval blockade, amid escalating tensions and warnings that the diplomatic process could collapse.

According to a Pakistani security source, Pakistan’s top mediator, Field Marshal Asim Munir, raised concerns during discussions with Washington that the blockade was obstructing efforts to sustain negotiations. The source said Trump responded that he would consider the advice, Reuters reports.

The developments come as Iran and the United States exchange accusations over compliance with the ceasefire, which is due to expire within two weeks, and amid reports that Washington had sought to begin new talks in Pakistan under tightened security arrangements in Islamabad.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said the United States had demonstrated it was “not serious” about diplomacy and accused Washington of maintaining “unreasonable and unrealistic positions.”

A senior Iranian source told Reuters that restrictions on Iranian maritime activity were undermining prospects for renewed talks, and stressed that Tehran’s “defensive capabilities,” including its missile programme, were not open to negotiation.

The tensions follow reports of a US seizure of an Iranian cargo vessel that allegedly attempted to breach restrictions, further heightening concerns that the ceasefire could unravel before formal negotiations resume.

By Sabina Mammadli