Arabic version: إيران تتهم الولايات المتحدة بالقرصنة مع تصاعد النزاع

President Donald Trump stated there is still potential for a deal with Iran, despite the ongoing US blockade of Iranian ports. This blockade has intensified protests in Tehran, where demonstrators accuse Washington of piracy targeting shipping through the vital Strait of Hormuz. According to Al Jazeera, Iran’s armed forces have condemned the blockade as illegal, warning that it jeopardizes shipping across the Gulf.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has indicated that it possesses “unused capabilities” and may employ new tactics if the conflict escalates further. Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to revive US-Iran negotiations are ongoing, with Pakistan offering to host talks this week. Qatar’s Foreign Minister has also called for constructive engagement between Iran and the US.

In the backdrop of these developments, the UK has suggested including Lebanon in a broader ceasefire framework, currently excluding Hezbollah’s involvement. However, Hezbollah’s leadership has rejected negotiations with Israel, urging Lebanese authorities to cancel planned talks in Washington.

The situation remains precarious as Israel continues its military operations in southern Lebanon, with the death toll from these attacks rising to at least 2,089. Israeli forces have intensified their actions, including drone strikes, while public sentiment in Lebanon is divided on the prospect of negotiations. The conflict has also led to significant disruptions in shipping, with about 20,000 vessels reportedly stranded, straining global supply chains.