Iran announced on Saturday that it was intensifying its control over the Strait of Hormuz, cautioning maritime vessels that the crucial energy passage was once again closed. However, President Donald Trump asserted that Tehran's actions could not manipulate the United States by blocking the waterway.
The decision by Tehran was in response to the ongoing US blockade of Iranian ports, which Iran deemed a breach of their ceasefire agreement. Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei emphasized that Iran's navy was prepared to deliver "new bitter defeats" to its adversaries.
Reports from shipping sources indicated that at least two vessels were fired upon and struck while attempting to navigate through the strait. India later disclosed that the Iranian ambassador in New Delhi was summoned and expressed deep concern over two Indian-flagged ships being targeted in the waterway.
Iran's state media cited the Supreme National Security Council stating that Iranian oversight of the strait now included the requirement for payment of expenses related to security, safety, and environmental protection services. Additionally, it reported that the US had presented new proposals following discussions facilitated by Pakistan in recent days, with Tehran currently reviewing them without having issued a response yet.
Despite Trump's announcement on Friday that negotiations were forthcoming, there were no immediate indications of direct talks between the US and Iran over the weekend. Trump mentioned that the US was engaged in "very good conversations" with Iran, but criticized Tehran for its intention to close the strait once more, reiterating that Iran's actions would not coerce the US.
