APTOPIX Iran War
The sun rises behind a tanker anchored in the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Qeshm Island, Iran, Saturday, April 18, 2026.
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Iran now says the Strait of Hormuz is fully closed until the end of the U.S. blockade on Iranian ports. Its Revolutionary Guard navy said Saturday night that any vessel "approaching the Strait of Hormuz will be considered as cooperation with the enemy” and be targeted. Earlier Saturday, Iran fired on at least two ships trying to transit the crucial waterway. The developments come after the United States said it would continue its blockade. Meanwhile, Pakistani mediators are working to organize new negotiations between the countries. But Iran's deputy foreign minister tells the AP that Tehran isn't ready for new face-to-face talks.
Trump said US negotiators will be in Pakistan on Monday for talks with Iran, resuming negotiations after Iran reversed its decision to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Iran had warned it would continue to block shipping as long as the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports remains in effect. The escalating standoff over the critical chokepoint threatens to deepen the energy crisis roiling the global economy. It could also push the two countries toward renewed conflict even as mediators have expressed confidence a new deal is within reach.
President Donald Trump says U.S. negotiators will head to Pakistan on Monday for another round of talks with Iran. The aim is to extend a fragile ceasefire set to expire by Wednesday. Iran has not confirmed the talks but has said it remains open to diplomacy. The White House says Vice President JD Vance will again lead the U.S. delegation. Security in Islamabad is being tightened for the meeting. The Strait of Hormuz remains a point of contention, with Iran blocking transit amid a U.S. blockade. The ongoing conflict has severely impacted global oil trade. Pakistan is working to mediate.
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