Iran has intensified its hardline stance, warning it may close maritime trade routes across multiple areas, including the Red Sea, if the United States does not lift its port blockade measures. Efforts at negotiations between the two parties continue.
On 16 Apr 2026 GMT+7, the Iranian military stated that if the United States does not lift its blockade on Iranian ports, it could lead to a breach of the two-week ceasefire agreement and destabilize the region. This follows U.S. forces having completely intercepted maritime trade entering and leaving Iran through blockade measures.
Ali Abdollah, commander of Iran’s Central Military Command, said that under these circumstances, Iran will not permit maritime exports or imports through the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, and the Red Sea.
Reports indicate that although Iran does not have a direct border on the Red Sea, it exerts influence in the area through regional allies, especially the Houthi group in Yemen, which has previously launched attacks on shipping vessels along these routes.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump signaled that peace talks might restart within this week after the initial round failed. U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, leading the negotiations, revealed that the U.S. has offered a major deal to end the war that has lasted over six weeks, including resolving issues related to Iran's nuclear program.