Iran refuses to reopen Strait of Hormuz amid US naval blockade
World News Iran refuses to reopen Strait of Hormuz amid US naval blockade Published on April 23, 2026 By Sunday Dennis googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1500386953281-8'); }); Iran has maintained its position against reopening the Strait of Hormuz, insisting the waterway will remain closed as long as a United States naval blockade is in effect, despite an extension of the ceasefire. The development came as Iranian authorities announced the seizure of two vessels attempting to navigate the strategic route, emphasizing ongoing tensions in the Gulf region. The United States Central Command, CENTCOM, disclosed late Wednesday that it had ordered 31 ships to either turn back or return to port as part of what it described as a blockade operation targeting Iran. googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('div-gpt-ad-1524595905268-5'); }); While uncertainty lingers over a possible resumption of hostilities, US President Donald Trump had earlier stated that the ceasefire would be sustained to allow additional time for peace negotiations reportedly being facilitated by Pakistan. Iran acknowledged Pakistan’s mediation efforts but did not directly respond to Trump’s remarks. However, Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf emphasised that any ceasefire would be meaningless if accompanied by continued naval restrictions. “A complete ceasefire only has meaning if it is not violated through a naval blockade,” Ghalibaf said, adding that reopening the Strait of Hormuz under such conditions was not feasible. The situation has already impacted global oil markets, with prices rising sharply before easing slightly on Thursday. The US benchmark, West Texas Intermediate, WTI, climbed by over four percent to $96.73 per barrel, while Brent crude increased by more than three percent to $105.63 before moderating. Trump indicated that diplomatic engagements could resume within days, noting that talks might take place in Pakistan. However, Iran has yet to confirm its participation, while US Vice President JD Vance reportedly postponed a planned visit to Islamabad. The US president also claimed that Iran had halted plans to execute eight women arrested during recent anti-government protests at his request. Iranian judicial authorities, however, dismissed the claim as “false news,” stating that the individuals were never facing capital punishment. Don't Miss David Scott, US Rep seeking 13th term, dead at 80 You may like 2026 World Cup: Trump’s envoy tells FIFA country that should replace Iran Your ceasefire extension means nothing – Iran official warns Trump Iran threatens to break US blockade of Hormuz Strait War: Again, Trump extends ceasefire with Iran Strait of Hormuz: US-Iran will end up with great deal – Trump War: We’re negotiating with finger on trigger – Iran
SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/04/23/iran-refuses-to-reopen-strait-of-hormuz-amid-us-naval-blockade/