Tehran, April 19: The current two-week ceasefire between Iran and the United States is set to expire on April 22. During this period, Iran has indicated that its ongoing discussions with the U.S. are progressing. However, it also stated that a final agreement is still out of reach.
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, addressed the nation on Saturday, asserting that significant differences remain between the two parties.
Ghalibaf stated, “The talks have not yet reached any crucial turning point. There are numerous shortcomings, and several fundamental issues are still unresolved.”
He also claimed that Iran has gained the upper hand in recent weeks of conflict. Tehran agreed to a temporary ceasefire only after Washington accepted its conditions.
Emphasizing Iran’s strategic position, he remarked that the U.S. has failed to achieve its objectives, while Iran has maintained control over the vital maritime route of the Strait of Hormuz, essential for global energy supply.
Ghalibaf added, “Every effort by the enemy has been to impose its terms on us, and it is crucial that we assert our rights. Therefore, negotiations are also a means of conflict.”
Meanwhile, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) announced that the country is prepared to maintain control and monitor traffic through the Strait of Hormuz until the war is completely over and lasting peace is established in the region.
According to Iranian media reports, this statement followed an announcement from Iran’s main military command, Khatam al-Anbia Central Headquarters, regarding the resumption of strict control over the Strait of Hormuz.
As reported by the Xinhua news agency, the SNSC stated that it will regulate the movement of vessels in the waterway. This includes collecting information on ships, issuing permits for entry and exit, charging fees for security and environmental services, and operating maritime traffic according to its regulations and wartime protocols.
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