WASHINGTON/TEHRAN — Data from MarineTraffic, cited by NBC News, reveals a significant drop in maritime activity, with only 12 vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz over the past 24 hours. This sharp decline comes as the region braces for the potential end of a two-week truce between the United States and Iran.
اضافة اعلان
High-Stakes Diplomacy Amid Ceasefire Deadline
On the 14th day of the ceasefire, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism regarding a potential resolution. "We have done a great job; we will be able to settle the Iran file, and everyone will be happy," Trump stated during an interview on The John Fredericks Show. However, he coupled his optimism with a stern warning, noting that an Iranian refusal to negotiate would lead to "unprecedented problems."
Key Diplomatic Developments:
Vance’s Mission: Sources told Axios that Vice President JD Vance is expected in Islamabad by Tuesday morning for potential talks. The report suggests Iranian negotiators are "stalling" under pressure from the Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) to maintain a hardline stance.
The "Green Light": Conversely, Axios reported that the Iranian negotiating team received a "green light" from the Supreme Leader late Monday to engage in talks.
Tehran’s Official Denial: Contradicting these reports, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated on Monday that Tehran currently has "no plan" for a second round of negotiations with Washington.
The "Tosca" Crisis and Escalation Risks
Tensions have been further inflamed by the U.S. seizure of the Iranian vessel Tosca. Tehran warned of "dire consequences" on Tuesday, demanding the immediate release of the ship and its crew. Iranian officials labeled the seizure as "maritime piracy, an act of terrorism, and a clear violation of the ceasefire."
Countdown to Wednesday
The 14-day truce, which went into effect on April 8, is set to expire this Wednesday. The drastic reduction in traffic through the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world's most vital energy chokepoints—underscores the international shipping industry's anxiety over a potential return to open conflict.
