Capitals, April 28 (SANA) Pressure on Iran is mounting as negotiations with the United States stall, with diplomats warning that a critical phase may be approaching amid rising military, economic and political tensions.
U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed dissatisfaction with Iran’s latest proposal, particularly over the absence of any reference to its nuclear program, according to reports by Reuters, CNN and The Wall Street Journal.
U.S. officials view the nuclear issue as central to any agreement, while Iran has suggested postponing discussions on the matter until after a ceasefire and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route.
Despite the impasse, sources cited by CNN said the two sides are “not as far apart as they appear,” with back-channel diplomacy continuing and any potential deal likely to begin with restoring navigation through Hormuz.
Washington has stepped up economic pressure, with the U.S. Treasury warning of sanctions on entities dealing with Iranian airlines. Reports also indicate plans to target third parties facilitating trade with Iran, as maritime restrictions disrupt shipping and curb oil exports.
Data cited by Bloomberg showed Iranian oil tankers gathering near the port of Chabahar, signaling export bottlenecks, while analysts warn output could drop sharply if restrictions persist.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the current level of sanctions as “exceptional” and said they could be increased. He also referred to the Strait of Hormuz as a key economic lever, warning that any arrangement to reopen it must not allow Iran to exert control over shipping.
Meanwhile, tensions remain high on the ground. Israel said it had struck more than 20 targets linked to Hezbollah militia in southern Lebanon and would continue operations against what it described as threats.
Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported four people killed and 51 wounded in recent strikes, while local reports pointed to intensified air raids and damage in residential areas.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said missile and drone threats persist despite a ceasefire, and military officials warned the conflict could expand.
Internationally, calls have grown for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Germany urged Iran to act immediately, while Britain said it was working to prevent disruption to the global economy. France called for significant concessions from Tehran.
Iran, in turn, accused the United States of disrupting maritime navigation and called for security guarantees, while Russia reiterated support for diplomatic efforts and its partnership with Tehran.
Markets have reacted cautiously, with oil prices remaining elevated on concerns over supply disruptions. Brent crude has traded between $107 and $109 per barrel, while U.S. crude hovered near $95–97.
Analysts say uncertainty remains high, with investors closely watching diplomatic developments amid warnings that failure to reach an agreement could trigger further instability in global energy markets.
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