Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said U.S. blockades of Iranian ports, threats and what he called “violations of commitments” were key obstacles to “real negotiations” with Washington. In publication on social network X he stressed that Tehran “welcomed the dialogue and agreement and continues to do so”
Addressing the United States, Pezeshkian noted that “the whole world sees endless hypocritical rhetoric and the contradiction between the words and actions” of the American side.
Amid the tensions, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghai said that Tehran is closely monitoring the political situation and, in response to Pakistan’s calls for a ceasefire, is ready to take “necessary measures to protect national interests and security.”writes the BBC.
Experts believe that Iran will seek to avoid escalation and may return to negotiations, using diplomatic pauses to reduce pressure.
According to experts, Iranian authorities fear a possible wave of protests against the backdrop of the economic crisis and increased internal control.
Human rights groups say at least 14 people have been executed in recent weeks, and the number of death sentences against participants in past protests is growing – some accused of spying for Israel.
At the same time, representatives of the Basij paramilitary forces on state television declare their readiness to harshly suppress dissent and continue the confrontation with the United States and Israel.
Recall that on April 21, Trump agreed extend the truce indefinitelyto give the parties the opportunity to continue negotiations. On Tuesday, the American leader said he was extending the truce with Tehran until the “divided Iranian leadership” presents a “united proposal” on next steps.
“I have instructed our military to continue the blockade and otherwise remain ready and capable, and will therefore extend the ceasefire until their proposal is presented and negotiations are concluded, one way or another,” he wrote on his Truth Social.
On Wednesday, White House press secretary Caroline Levitt said reports that the extended truce was limited to three to five days were “not true.” writes the BBC.
According to her, Donald Trump did not set any deadlines, “he is pleased with the effect of the naval blockade,” which effectively stopped the export of Iranian oil, and “understands that Iran is in a very weak position.”
She also stated that US economic pressure on Iran continues under the ceasefire conditions.
