By Ginika Igboke
Iran’s parliamentary leadership warned on Saturday that the country is prepared for a military confrontation with the United States if ongoing peace negotiations collapse, underscoring rising tensions despite fragile diplomatic efforts.
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran remains on high alert even as talks continue, emphasizing that military readiness has not been diminished.
“It is not the case that we think just because we are negotiating, the armed forces are not ready,” he said in remarks to state media. “Just as the people are in the streets, our armed forces are also ready.”
Strait of Hormuz Tensions Intensify
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced it would reassert control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes.
The group warned that maritime traffic would remain restricted as long as the United States maintains its naval blockade of Iranian ports.
“It is announced that until the U.S. ends its obstruction of the full freedom of movement of vessels from and to Iran, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz will remain under strict control,” the IRGC said in a public statement.
Ghalibaf reinforced that stance, saying it would be unacceptable for other nations to use the waterway freely while Iran remains blocked.
U.S. Prepares for New Round of Talks
On Sunday, Donald Trump announced that American negotiators would travel to Pakistan for a second round of talks with Iran. Tehran has not yet publicly confirmed its participation.
Trump reiterated that failure to reach an agreement could trigger significant military action, including strikes on Iran’s energy and transportation infrastructure.
He also accused Iran of violating the current ceasefire by opening fire on a vessel in the Strait of Hormuz.
“Iran decided to fire bullets yesterday in the Strait of Hormuz—a total violation of our ceasefire agreement,” Trump said, adding that the targeted ship was French.
Key Disputes Remain Unresolved
Major sticking points continue to hinder progress in negotiations, including Iran’s nuclear enrichment program, its support for regional proxy groups, and control over key maritime routes.
The current ceasefire between the United States and Iran is set to expire by midweek, raising concerns that hostilities could quickly resume if no agreement is reached. Meanwhile, a separate 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon appears to be holding.
Iran Expands Military Capabilities During Ceasefire
Iranian officials indicated that the country is using the ceasefire period to strengthen its military capabilities.
According to statements carried by semi-official media, IRGC General Majid Mousavi said Iran has accelerated efforts to replenish and upgrade its missile and drone systems.
“During the ceasefire period, our speed in updating and refilling missile and drone launch platforms is even greater than before the war,” he said.
High-Stakes Moment for Diplomacy
With both sides issuing strong warnings while preparing for negotiations, the situation remains highly volatile. The coming days are expected to be critical in determining whether diplomacy can prevail or if tensions will escalate into direct conflict.
Despite ongoing talks, deep divisions and mutual distrust continue to cast doubt over the prospects for a lasting agreement.
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