U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday accused Iran of a “total violation” of a ceasefire after reported attacks on vessels near the Strait of Hormuz, warning of sweeping military strikes unless Tehran accepts U.S. terms.
Trump said U.S. officials would return to Pakistan for renewed talks, signaling diplomacy remains ongoing despite escalating tensions.
“We’re offering a very fair and reasonable deal,” Trump said on social media, adding that failure to agree would result in the United States targeting Iran’s “power plants” and “bridges.”
Iran had briefly announced it would reopen the Strait of Hormuz — a key global energy route — before reversing the decision after Washington refused to ease a blockade on Iranian shipping.
Shipping traffic through the strait has since halted, according to maritime data, after at least two vessels reported being fired upon while approaching the waterway.
Iranian negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said significant gaps remain between the two sides, particularly over nuclear activity and control of the strait.
“There is still a big distance between us,” he said, while noting limited progress in recent talks.
The renewed closure of Hormuz — which previously carried around 20% of global oil shipments — has intensified market volatility after a brief drop in prices last week on expectations the route would reopen.
The conflict, now in its eighth week, has triggered one of the most severe disruptions to global energy supply on record, with oil prices surging amid ongoing military escalation.
Negotiations in Islamabad last week ended without a breakthrough, though security measures in the Pakistani capital suggest preparations for further rounds. Authorities have restricted transport and increased military presence near key venues.
Iran has insisted that any future talks must be based on a clear framework, while U.S. proposals reportedly include a long-term suspension of Iran’s nuclear programme — a demand Tehran has resisted.
A temporary ceasefire in the broader conflict is due to expire later this week, raising concerns of further escalation across the region.
