Iran foreign ministry says US naval blockade ‘violation’ of ceasefire

Iran’s foreign ministry says that the US naval blockade on Iranian ports is a violation of the ceasefire as well as an “unlawful and criminal” act.

“The United States’ so-called ‘blockade’ of Iran’s ports or coastline is not only a violation of Pakistani-mediated ceasefire but also both unlawful and criminal,” said foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei, in a post on X.

“Moreover, by deliberately inflicting collective punishment on the Iranian population, it amounts to a war crime and crime against humanity,” Baqaei added.

Earlier, Iran’s lead negotiator has said that discussions with the United States have made some progress but warned that significant differences remain and trust between the two sides is still limited.

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who heads Iran’s negotiating team, said Tehran is prepared for further talks but does not trust Washington. 

He stressed that Iran is seeking a durable peace arrangement aimed at ending the repeated cycle of conflict and temporary ceasefires but said such an agreement would require firm guarantees.

Ghalibaf criticised recent US actions, including what he described as a blockade announcement, calling it an unreasonable decision. 

He questioned why other countries were allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz while restrictions were being imposed on Iran, describing the situation as unacceptable.

He also issued a warning regarding the movement of US naval forces in the region, stating that American minesweepers should not advance beyond their current positions. 

Iran's chief negotiator said that any such movement would be met with a response from Iranian forces.

According to Ghalibaf, the United States has failed to achieve its objectives through pressure, threats and strict deadlines. 

He added that Washington had now been forced to rely on indirect communication channels to send messages to Tehran.