Trump says US will not lift Hormuz blockade until deal made with Iran

US President Donald Trump has stated that the US will not lift its blockade of Hormuz until a deal is made with Iran. The potential second round of talks between the two countries is set to take place in Islamabad, Pakistan. A US delegation, led by Special Envoy Robert Vance, is expected to arrive soon, although no specific departure time was given. Iranian officials have indicated that Tehran has "no plans" to attend the talks so far. Preparations are underway in Islamabad, with guests at the Serena Hotel being told to leave and police closing key roads due to the arrival of foreign delegations. Pakistan is reportedly confident it can persuade Iran to participate in the talks.

Tensions are escalating in the Middle East as a US-brokered ceasefire between Iran and other parties nears its end this week. The US seized a vessel allegedly attempting to breach the American blockade on Iranian ports, prompting Iran to threaten retaliation and withdraw from planned talks. British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper is in Japan as part of a diplomatic mission to salvage the situation, emphasizing the need for toll-free passage through the Strait of Hormuz in any lasting settlement. Cooper warns that failure to secure freedom of navigation would negatively impact the global economy and security. The situation is described as a critical diplomatic moment.