Tehran: Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, announced that the management of the Strait of Hormuz will enter a new phase, signaling a heightened level of control over the crucial waterway.
According to Thai News Agency, while Khamenei assured that Iran does not seek war, he emphasized the country's determination to protect its rights and retaliate against any attacks. The Supreme Leader's declaration comes amidst ongoing tensions and follows the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed at the start of the conflict.
In the region, there is no indication that Iran will ease its near-total blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a move that has significantly disrupted global energy supplies. The blockade remains a contentious issue, particularly in light of Israel's continued military actions in Lebanon, which have been identified as a significant impediment to resolving the blockade. The free navigation through the Strait is a key condition in the temporary ceasefire agreement with the United States.
As part of efforts to address the ongoing conflict, the US-Iran negotiations are set to take place in Islamabad, Pakistan, with the Pakistani government implementing a security perimeter around the Serena Hotel, the venue for the talks. While it remains unclear if the Iranian negotiators have arrived, the United States has confirmed that delegation-level discussions are slated for tomorrow. Disagreements persist between the US and Iran, notably concerning the access to the Strait of Hormuz and the impact of Israel's actions in Lebanon, which are crucial areas needing resolution.
Meanwhile, in Lebanon, the situation remains tense as Israeli troops continue operations near the border amidst ongoing hostilities with Hezbollah. Despite a ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran, Israeli attacks have intensified, with recent offensives being the most severe since the conflict began. The situation threatens the fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed his cabinet to commence direct peace talks with Lebanon, focusing on the disarmament of Hezbollah and the establishment of peaceful relations. While Netanyahu described the potential peace agreement as historic, he reiterated that there would be no ceasefire in Lebanon at present.
In the United States, President Donald Trump confirmed discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, urging a de-escalation of attacks in Lebanon to facilitate the US-Iran peace talks. Despite reports of ongoing Israeli operations, Trump expressed optimism about a potential reduction in hostilities, though he acknowledged Lebanon's exclusion from the formal ceasefire with Iran. He described the conflict in Lebanon as "divided," highlighting the complexity of the regional tensions.