LIVE BLOG: Israeli Tanks Destroyed in Hezbollah Ambush in South Lebanon – Day 51

The Strait of Hormuz. (Photo: via Tasnim news agency)

By Palestine Chronicle Staff  

Iran rejects negotiations under US pressure, insists on Hormuz rights, and signals talks remain unlikely amid blockade and disputed claims.

Key Developments

  • Iran will not negotiate under pressure and will only enter talks from a position of strength.
  • Tehran insists its rights in the Strait of Hormuz are “not negotiable” and plans a legal framework under international law.
  • No decision has been made on new negotiations, with reports of talks in Islamabad denied as inaccurate.
  • US “maximalist” demands, shifting positions, and the ongoing naval blockade remain key obstacles to diplomacy.
  • Lifting the US blockade on Iranian ports is a central precondition, with the current climate described as “not very positive.”
Mon, Apr 20, 11:01 PM (Palestine Time)

Araghchi: Iran Will Act to Protect National Interests

IRANIAN FOREIGN MINISTER: Abbas Araghchi told Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov that Iran is closely monitoring developments and will take appropriate decisions to protect its national interests and security.

Crew of Seized Iranian Vessel to Return Soon

NEW YORK TIMES: A US military official said the crew of the detained Iranian vessel will return to Iran soon.

Araghchi: US Attacks on Shipping Undermine Diplomacy

IRANIAN FOREIGN MINISTER:

  • Araghchi said US threats and attacks on Iranian commercial vessels are obstructing diplomatic efforts.
  • He added that Iran will decide on continuing negotiations based on all current developments.
Mon, Apr 20, 10:58 PM (Palestine Time)

‘Deception Scenario’- Russia warns Iran as US Delegation Arrives in Islamabad

Russia cautions Iran over potential “deception scenario,” as US delegation arrives in Islamabad and negotiations remain uncertain.

‘Deception Scenario’- Russia warns Iran as US Delegation Arrives in Islamabad

Mon, Apr 20, 9:32 PM (Palestine Time)

Dozens of Israelis Detained in Moscow

ISRAELI PUBLIC BROADCASTER: Forty Israelis were detained for several hours at a Moscow airport on suspicion of involvement in the war on Iran before being released.

Pakistan Confident It Can Bring Iran to Talks

REUTERS: A senior Pakistani source said Islamabad is confident it can persuade Iran to attend negotiations with the United States.

Six Injured in Israeli Strike in South Lebanon

LEBANESE HEALTH MINISTRY: Six people were injured in an Israeli airstrike on the town of Qaquaiyet al-Jisr in southern Lebanon.

Confusion Over Israel–Lebanon Talks in Washington

US STATE DEPARTMENT: A US spokesperson said Washington will not host a second round of talks between Israel and Lebanon this Thursday, contradicting earlier reports.

Trump: Prefers Ending War but Ready to Fight

AXIOS:

  • A US official said Trump wants to end the conflict and is frustrated, but would resume fighting if necessary.
  • The official noted concerns over Iran’s control of the Strait of Hormuz and internal divisions within Iranian leadership.

US Plans for Talks Remain Uncertain

ABC NEWS: US officials said JD Vance is expected to travel to Pakistan, but plans remain fluid and could change.

Dozens of Israelis Detained in Moscow

ISRAELI PUBLIC BROADCASTER: Forty Israelis were detained for several hours at a Moscow airport on suspicion of involvement in the war on Iran before being released.

USS Gerald Ford Deployed to Red Sea

US CENTRAL COMMAND: The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier and its strike group are operating in the Red Sea within US Central Command’s area of responsibility.

Lebanese Army Opens Alternative Bridge Over Litani River

LEBANESE ARMY: The Lebanese army announced the completion of an alternative bridge over the Litani River, now open to vehicles.

Israel Concerned Ballistic Missiles Not on Agenda

CHANNEL 13: An Israeli official said the absence of Iran’s ballistic missile program from negotiations is a major concern for political leadership.

Mon, Apr 20, 8:12 PM (Palestine Time)

Stolen Horses of Ein Yabrud: Report Exposes Mass Settler Livestock Theft Across West Bank

A rights report reveals systematic livestock theft by settlers amid escalating attacks on Palestinian property, land, and livelihoods.

Stolen Horses of Ein Yabrud: Report Exposes Mass Settler Livestock Theft Across West Bank

Mon, Apr 20, 8:04 PM (Palestine Time)

Pezeshkian: Contradictory US Signals Undermine Trust

IRANIAN PRESIDENT: President Masoud Pezeshkian said conflicting and non-constructive signals from US officials send a “bitter message,” stressing that trust and commitment are essential for dialogue.

Israel Preparing to Resume War with Iran ‘at Any Moment’

CHANNEL 12: An Israeli source said Israel is preparing to resume fighting with Iran at any moment, with the air force maintaining readiness and pilots on standby.

Russia Signals Readiness to Mediate Between Iran and Gulf States

RUSSIAN FOREIGN MINISTRY:Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi that Moscow is ready to help reach “acceptable agreements” between Iran and Gulf countries.

Israeli Strikes and Demolitions Continue in South Lebanon

CHANNEL 12: Israeli airstrikes targeted what was described as a threatening cell south of the Litani River, while army forces demolished buildings in the southern village of Deir Siryan.

Over 600 Russian Workers Evacuated from Bushehr Nuclear Plant

ROSATOM: The head of Russia’s Rosatom said more than 600 Russian personnel were evacuated from the Bushehr nuclear facility following the start of strikes on Iran.

Conflicting Reports on Vance Travel to Islamabad

REUTERS / NEW YORK TIMES: Reuters reported JD Vance has not yet left the US, while US officials told the New York Times he is expected to depart for Islamabad on Tuesday.

Mon, Apr 20, 9:14 PM (Palestine Time)

‘Israel Will Not Protect You’: Resistance Destroys Collaborator Vehicle in Khan Yunis Ambush

Gaza resistance forces ambush collaborator vehicles in Khan Yunis, destroying one, as clashes erupt and Israeli drones intervene.

‘Israel Will Not Protect You’: Resistance Destroys Collaborator Vehicle in Khan Yunis Ambush

Mon, Apr 20, 6:40 PM (Palestine Time)

Iran: No Change in Decision Not to Join Talks

TASNIM:

  • An Iranian source said Tehran’s decision not to participate in negotiations remains unchanged and is tied to specific conditions.
  • The source described the US maritime blockade as a “major obstacle,” adding that Washington’s demands are excessive and do not indicate a clear path forward.
  • It said Iran views the talks as a waste of time unless a realistic framework emerges.

Macron: US and Iran Positions on Hormuz Are Wrong

FRENCH PRESIDENT: President Emmanuel Macron said both US and Iranian positions regarding the Strait of Hormuz blockade are wrong.

US Marines Inspect Iranian Vessel Touska

NEW YORK TIMES:US Marines are inspecting around 5,000 containers aboard the Iranian vessel “Touska,” according to a US military official.

Trump: Hormuz Will Remain Closed, War May Resume Without Deal

BLOOMBERG:

  • US President Donald Trump said the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until a final agreement is reached, adding he will not rush into a bad deal.
  • He warned that fighting is likely to resume if no agreement is reached before the ceasefire ends Wednesday evening.
  • Trump said Iran wants the strait reopened, but he will not allow that before a deal is signed.

US Blockade Prevents Ships from Reaching Iranian Ports

US CENTRAL COMMAND: US Central Command said 27 vessels have been prevented from entering or leaving Iranian ports since the blockade began.

Trump: Bombing Will Resume If Ceasefire Ends

PBS: Trump said that if the ceasefire with Iran expires, “many bombs will explode,” stressing that negotiations focus solely on preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.

Lebanon and Israel to Hold Talks in Washington

REUTERS / AL JAZEERA:

  • Lebanon confirmed it will participate in a second meeting with Israel in Washington on Thursday.
  • Israel will be represented by its ambassador to the United States, while Lebanon will be represented by Ambassador Nada Moawad.

Israeli Armored Vehicle Hit by Explosion in South Lebanon

REUTERS: An Israeli armored vehicle was likely damaged by an explosive device in southern Lebanon on Sunday, according to the Israeli military.

Netanyahu: We Have Not Finished the War

ISRAELI PM:

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel has not ended the war and remains determined to defend itself, adding that its air force controls the region’s skies.

Trump: Iran Must Abandon Nuclear Weapons

NEW YORK POST:

  • Trump said abandoning nuclear weapons is a non-negotiable condition in talks with Iran.
  • He added that US officials, including JD Vance, Witkoff, and Kushner, are heading to Islamabad for negotiations.

US Delegation Expected in Islamabad within Hours

NEW YORK POST: US Vice President JD Vance and the accompanying delegation are expected to arrive in Islamabad within hours for talks with Iran.

Mon, Apr 20, 6:02 PM (Palestine Time)

Maritime Piracy: Iranian Retaliation Looming as Crew Safety Delays Military Action

Iran delays retaliation after US attack on vessel, citing crew safety, while warning response will follow amid rising tensions.

Maritime Piracy: Iranian Retaliation Looming as Crew Safety Delays Military Action

Mon, Apr 20, 4:20 PM (Palestine Time)

Iran: No Decision on Talks as US Actions Undermine Ceasefire

TASNIM:

  • Iran has not made a decision on participating in a new round of Pakistan-mediated talks in Islamabad, Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said.
  • He said US actions contradict its claims of diplomacy, pointing to what he described as “bad faith” since the start of the ceasefire.
  • Baqaei cited US maritime actions in the Strait of Hormuz, including an attack on an Iranian commercial vessel, calling it a violation of the ceasefire.
  • He added that Washington’s conduct deepens mistrust, stressing that Iran will decide its next steps based on national interests while remaining cautious of further escalation.
Mon, Apr 20, 4:20 PM (Palestine Time)

Iran: Diplomacy and Battlefield Are Interlinked

IRANIAN GOVERNMENT:

  • Iran’s government spokesperson said diplomacy is an extension of the battlefield, stressing that both approaches are necessary to protect national interests.
  • She emphasized the importance of supporting the negotiating team, particularly when the head of the delegation is a field commander.

Lebanon-Israel Envoys to Hold Second Meeting in Washington

CHANNEL 15: Israeli media reported that a second meeting between the Lebanese and Israeli ambassadors is scheduled to take place next Thursday in Washington.

Pakistan and Iran Coordinate Second Round of Talks

PAKISTANI INTERIOR MINISTRY:

  • Pakistan’s interior minister discussed with Iran’s ambassador the arrangements for the second phase of talks in Islamabad.
  • He stressed the need to reach a sustainable solution through diplomatic channels to reduce regional tensions.

US Military Aircraft Lands in Islamabad Ahead of Talks

AL JAZEERA: A US military aircraft landed at Nur Khan airbase in Islamabad as part of preparations for the arrival of a US delegation for negotiations with Iran

Mon, Apr 20, 4:20 PM (Palestine Time)

Lowest Point: Trump Approval Drops Amid Iran War and Rising Costs – NBC NEWS

Trump’s approval falls to a new low as inflation and the Iran war drive broad disapproval, a new NBC News poll shows.

Lowest Point: Trump Approval Drops Amid Iran War and Rising Costs – NBC NEWS

Mon, Apr 20, 2:45 PM (Palestine Time)

China Calls for Safeguarding Navigation in Hormuz

XINHUA:

  • Chinese President Xi Jinping said freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz must be preserved.
  • He also called for an immediate ceasefire and a diplomatic resolution to the conflict in the Middle East.

Fortified Iranian Nuclear Site Challenges US Options

NEW YORK TIMES:

  • A heavily fortified underground facility under construction near Natanz remains a major challenge for Washington despite extensive US strikes.
  • The site, known as “Pickaxe Mountain,” is buried deep underground and may be beyond the reach of US bunker-buster bombs.
  • The report said Trump is seeking urgent action on the facility, whether through military means or negotiations.

Israeli Cabinet Discusses Iran Talks and Lebanon Ceasefire

ISRAELI MEDIA: Israel’s security cabinet is holding a meeting to discuss developments related to Iran negotiations and the ceasefire in Lebanon.

Lebanon: Talks with Israel Aim to End War and Occupation

LEBANESE PRESIDENT:

  • President Joseph Aoun said negotiations with Israel will be led by a delegation headed by Simon Karam.
  • He said the goal is to end hostilities, end the occupation, and deploy the Lebanese army to internationally recognized borders.
  • He added that talks are separate from other negotiations and framed the choice as either continued war or stability through dialogue.

Iraq to Resume Oil Exports via Kirkuk-Ceyhan Pipeline

IRAQI OIL MINISTRY:Iraq will resume oil exports through the Kirkuk-Ceyhan pipeline within days at a rate of 500,000 barrels per day.

Sharp Decline in Shipping Through Strait of Hormuz

FINANCIAL TIMES: Only two ships passed through the Strait of Hormuz in the past 24 hours, reflecting a sharp decline in maritime traffic.

Mon, Apr 20, 2:34 PM (Palestine Time)

Sexual Violence as Coercion: How Abuse is Driving Forced Displacement in West Bank

A new report reveals how sexualized violence is systematically used to pressure Palestinian communities into displacement across the occupied West Bank.

Sexual Violence as Coercion: How Abuse is Driving Forced Displacement in West Bank

Mon, Apr 20, 12:57 PM (Palestine Time)

Iran: US Blockade of Hormuz Undermining Negotiations

REUTERS:

  • A senior Iranian source said ongoing US blockade measures in the Strait of Hormuz are undermining US-Iran negotiations.
  • The source added that disagreements over the nuclear program remain unresolved and gaps have not narrowed.

Russia Calls for Continued Talks, Avoiding Military Escalation

KREMLIN:

  • The Kremlin said it hopes negotiations over the war in the Middle East will continue and that parties will avoid returning to military confrontation.
  • It added that Russia is not a mediator in the Iran talks but is ready to assist if necessary.

Israel Holds Security Meeting on Iran and Lebanon

CHANNEL 12:Israel’s security cabinet is holding a previously delayed meeting to discuss developments related to Iran and Lebanon.

Pakistan Intensifies Efforts to Restart US-Iran Talks

AP / REUTERS:

  • Pakistan has intensified contacts with Washington and Tehran in the past 24 hours to resume negotiations.
  • Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir reportedly told Trump that the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is obstructing talks, with Trump promising to review the issue.
  • This comes as uncertainty continues over the second round of negotiations, with Iran saying no decision has yet been made.

Israel Sets ‘Red Line’ on Iran’s Ballistic Missiles

ISRAELI ARMY RADIO:

  • Israel has set a red line regarding the number of Iran’s ballistic missiles.
  • Military sources said that if Iran approaches that limit, its missile system must be targeted.
Mon, Apr 20, 12:15 PM (Palestine Time)

‘Most Challenging Enemy’: Hezbollah Ambush Engulfs Merkava Tanks in Flames

Hezbollah destroys Merkava tanks in an ambush targeting an Israeli convoy as violations continue and losses mount in southern Lebanon.

‘Most Challenging Enemy’: Hezbollah Ambush Engulfs Merkava Tanks in Flames

Mon, Apr 20, 11:15 AM (Palestine Time)

Iran: No Decision on Next Round of Talks, US Proposals ‘Unrealistic’

IRANIAN FOREIGN MINISTRY:

  • Iran said it has made no decision regarding the next round of negotiations, stressing that it has no plans for upcoming talks.
  • It described US proposals as unserious and demands as unrealistic, adding that Tehran will not change its positions.
  • The ministry said Iran does not respond to deadlines or ultimatums when it comes to protecting national interests, and expressed pessimism toward Washington’s approach.
  • It also stressed that transferring enriched uranium has never been an option, and that its actions in the Strait of Hormuz are in line with international law following attacks by the United States and Israel.

Iran Vows Response to US Attack on Vessel, Cites Safety Concerns

KHATAM AL-ANBIYA HQ:

  • Iran said its forces will respond firmly to US forces that attacked one of its vessels.
  • It added that the response is being delayed due to the presence of the ship’s crew and their families onboard, stressing that retaliation will come after ensuring their safety.

Iran: US Violated Ceasefire, No Decision Yet on Talks

IRANIAN FOREIGN MINISTRY SPOKESPERSON:

  • Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said the United States violated the ceasefire from the outset, including through imposing a maritime blockade.
  • He confirmed that no decision has been made regarding participation in the next round of negotiations, adding that Iran cannot ignore past attacks carried out during previous talks.
  • He stressed readiness to confront the United States following the attack on an Iranian vessel and said the Strait of Hormuz had been safe before US and Israeli actions.

China Voices Concern Over Seizure of Iranian Ship

CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTRY:

  • China expressed concern over the forced interception of an Iranian commercial vessel.
  • It said the situation in the Strait of Hormuz is sensitive and complex, calling for conditions that would help end the war.

Iran Calls for Diplomacy, Warns Against Escalation

IRANIAN PRESIDENT:

  • President Masoud Pezeshkian said war is not in the interest of any party, calling for a rational and diplomatic path to reduce tensions.
  • He stressed the importance of vigilance and mistrust in dealing with adversaries.

Iran: Will Not Retreat from Its Demands

IRANIAN JUDICIARY CHIEF: Iran’s judiciary chief said Tehran will not retreat “one step” from its demands, adding that the opposing side is now seeking negotiations after failing to impose its terms.

Israeli Strike Targets Area in South Lebanon

ISRAELI ARMY: The Israeli military said it struck what it described as a rocket launcher ready for use in the Qlayleh area in southern Lebanon.

Israel Arrests Two Suspected of Spying for Iran

CHANNEL 12: Israeli media reported that two individuals were arrested in Tel Aviv on suspicion of spying for Iran, with one allegedly planning to travel abroad for training.

Mon, Apr 20, 11:53 AM (Palestine Time)

https://www.palestinechronicle.com/imminent-response-iran-warns-of-retaliation-as-us-seizes-vessel-touska/

Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters warned on Sunday that the United States will face retaliation after targeting an Iranian commercial vessel in the Gulf of Oman.

‘Imminent Response’: Iran Warns of Retaliation as US Seizes Vessel ‘Touska’

Mon, Apr 20, 8:47 AM (Palestine Time)

Hezbollah: Destruction of Israeli Tanks in South Lebanon Operation

AL MAYADEEN:

  • Hezbollah said its fighters detonated pre-planted explosive devices targeting an Israeli convoy of eight armored vehicles in the town of Taybeh, southern Lebanon.
  • The group said the convoy was moving toward the old al-Sallaa position in Deir Seryan when the explosion occurred.
  • It added that the operation took place during what it described as a new Israeli ceasefire violation.
  • According to the statement, the blast destroyed four Merkava tanks, which were seen burning before Israeli forces withdrew them from the site.

No Immediate Signs of New US-Iran Talks in Islamabad

AL MAYADEEN: A correspondent in Islamabad said there are no indications so far that a new round of negotiations between the United States and Iran will take place in the coming hours.

Israeli Army Faces Challenges from Fiber-Optic Drones

MAARIV:

  • The Israeli military had previously estimated the range of fiber-optic drones at around 2 kilometers, but it has now been found to exceed 10 kilometers.
  • The report added that the military is facing difficulty intercepting these drones.
  • It noted that Hezbollah’s use of explosive fiber-optic drones has posed a new challenge for the Israeli army during the war.

Polls Show Declining US Support for War with Iran

NBC NEWS:

  • A new poll found that 74% of Americans under 30 believe the United States should not take further military action against Iran.
  • It also showed that two-thirds of Americans disapprove of Trump’s handling of the war.
  • The report added that Trump’s approval rating is declining amid growing concerns over rising costs and the ongoing war with Iran.
Mon, Apr 20, 6:09 AM (Palestine Time)

Bolton: Trump Seeks Exit from War, Iran Assessment Was Wrong

AL MAYADEEN / POLITICO / ABC NEWS / IRNA:

  • Former US National Security Advisor John Bolton said President Donald Trump appears to be looking for a way out of the war, suggesting he may be concerned about its trajectory.
  • Bolton said any assumption that confrontation with Iran would be quick or easy was mistaken, stressing that dealing with Iran—especially regarding its nuclear program—is complex and long-term.
  • He added that limited strikes are not a lasting solution, noting that such approaches would require repeated operations and would not eliminate the threat.
  • Bolton stressed that neutralizing Iran’s capabilities, even if limited to its nuclear program, has always been a difficult task.
  • Separately, Politico reported, citing a senior Gulf official, that Trump may be willing to offer new concessions in order to end the war.
  • Trump said he still believes a peace agreement with Iran is possible, stating that US representatives will head to Islamabad for negotiations and that a deal will happen “one way or another,” whether peacefully or by force.
  • He also confirmed that envoy Steve Witkoff will travel to Pakistan to resume talks aimed at ending the war.
  • Meanwhile, IRNA denied reports that a second round of negotiations would take place in Islamabad, saying US demands, continued blockade, and threats have so far obstructed progress, with no clear path toward meaningful negotiations.
Mon, Apr 20, 6:07 AM (Palestine Time)

Trump’s Approach Fuels Confusion in Iran Negotiations

THE GUARDIAN:

  • The Guardian said Trump’s decision to pursue negotiations reinforces in Tehran the need to act with caution, calm, and strategic thinking in response to what it described as his chaotic approach.
  • The report added that Trump’s unpredictability is creating confusion and disorder in the course of negotiations with Iran.
Mon, Apr 20, 4:11 AM (Palestine Time)

‘1500 Face Displacement’: Israeli Bulldozers Return to Al-Sir as Demolitions Resume in Naqab

PALESTINE CHRONICLE: Israeli forces demolish homes in Al-Sir village, resuming a months-long ethnic cleansing campaign that has already left hundreds of families without shelter.

‘1500 Face Displacement’: Israeli Bulldozers Return to Al-Sir as Demolitions Resume in Naqab

Mon, Apr 20, 4:09 AM (Palestine Time)

Israeli Media: Ceasefire Linked to Iran-US Talks, Not Lebanon Contact Efforts

CHANNEL 12:

  • Israeli officials are attempting to frame the ceasefire as linked to a communication attempt between Netanyahu and the Lebanese president.
  • However, the report notes that Iranian officials are accurate in saying the Lebanon ceasefire is tied to the Iran-US negotiations.

Three Injured in Israeli Attack West of Gaza City

PALESTINIAN MEDIA: Three injured people arrived at Al-Shifa Hospital after an attack targeting a group of civilians near the 17 Roundabout west of Gaza City.

Oil Prices Surge Over 7% Amid Escalation

MARKET DATA:

  • Brent crude futures rose more than 7% to $97.50 per barrel.
  • US crude futures also increased by more than 7%, reaching $91.20 per barrel.
Mon, Apr 20, 4:07 AM (Palestine Time)

UAE Seeks US Financial Support Amid War Risks, Warns Over Dollar Access

WALL STREET JOURNAL:

  • The UAE has asked the United States about financial safety mechanisms in the event the war leads to a worsening economic crisis.
  • Emirati officials discussed with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent the possibility of securing access to US dollars if the conflict in the Middle East is prolonged.
  • They warned that the UAE may be forced to sell oil in yuan if sufficient dollar liquidity is not provided.
  • Officials said the UAE has so far avoided the worst economic impacts of the conflict but may still require urgent financial support.
  • According to US officials, Abu Dhabi raised the issue of potential financial assistance from Washington if the war deepens the economic strain.
Mon, Apr 20, 4:01 AM (Palestine Time)

Iran Says US Attacked Commercial Vessel in Gulf of Oman, Vows Response

AL MAYADEEN / IRANIAN STATEMENT:

  • Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters said the United States violated the ceasefire by opening fire on an Iranian commercial vessel in the Gulf of Oman, describing the incident as “maritime piracy” and warning that a response will follow soon.
  • The statement said US forces disrupted the ship’s navigation system and boarded it after the attack.

Trump Confirms Seizure of Iranian Ship

TRUTH SOCIAL / US STATEMENT:

  • US President Donald Trump said the US Navy fired on and seized an Iranian-flagged cargo ship after it attempted to breach the US maritime blockade in the Gulf of Oman.
  • He said the destroyer USS Spruance intercepted the vessel, identified as “Tosca,” and issued warnings before disabling it by targeting its engine room, adding that US Marines have taken control of the ship.

Iran: Threats Signal ‘Bad Faith’ in Negotiations

IRANIAN FOREIGN MINISTRY:

  • Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said threats against Iranian ports, ships, and coastlines reflect “bad faith,” stressing that Tehran will use all its capabilities to protect its interests and national security.
  • In parallel, Iranian Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref said that security in the Strait of Hormuz “is not without cost,” adding that Iran’s oil exports cannot be restricted while others expect free protection.

Hormuz Closure Linked to US Blockade

IRNA: Iran had earlier announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz until the US lifts its maritime blockade on Iranian ports, following what it described as violations of ceasefire commitments and the absence of a clear path toward meaningful negotiations.

Mon, Apr 20, 1:03 AM (Palestine Time)

Iran: No Negotiations Under Pressure

AL MAYADEEN:

  • Iran will not engage in negotiations with the United States under pressure, MP Rouhollah Izadkhah said, stressing that any talks would take place only from a position of strength.
  • He said Tehran will insist on its rights in the Strait of Hormuz and establish a framework to regulate it under international law, dismissing Trump’s blockade as a “failed spectacle.”

Iran: No Decision Yet on New Talks, Reports Denied

IRNA:

  • IRNA said Iran has not yet decided whether to participate in a new round of negotiations and denied reports that talks were held in Islamabad, describing them as inaccurate.
  • The agency added that there is “no clear prospect of fruitful negotiations.”

Iran: US Demands and Blockade Obstruct Talks

IRNA:

  • The agency cited US “maximalist” demands, shifting positions, and the continued naval blockade as key obstacles to negotiations.
  • It said US claims about talks are part of “media games” aimed at exerting pressure on Iran.

Iran: Talks Conditional on Lifting Blockade

FARS / TASNIM:

  • Fars and Tasnim reported that Iran has not finalized its position on participation, describing the current climate as “not very positive.”
  • They said lifting the US blockade on Iranian ports remains a key precondition for any negotiations.
Mon, Apr 20, 12:07 AM (Palestine Time)

Pezeshkian: Iran Ready to Confront Any New US Escalation

IRANIAN PRESIDENCY:

  • President Masoud Pezeshkian said Iran is prepared to confront any new US or Israeli escalation.
  • He warned that the ongoing maritime blockade and US threats violate the ceasefire and undermine diplomacy.
  • He also stressed Iran’s commitment to maintaining relations with neighboring countries and supporting regional stability.

Iran: 20 Passenger Aircraft Damaged in US-Israeli Attacks

IRAN AIRLINES ASSOCIATION:

  • Secretary-General Maqsoud Asadi Samani said 20 passenger aircraft suffered major damage due to US and Israeli strikes.
  • He added that Iran has between 250 and 300 passenger planes, with around 150 in operation while the rest are grounded for technical reasons.

Iran’s “Mosquito Fleet” Tactics in the Strait of Hormuz

AL-JAZEERA:

  • Iran relies on swarms of fast attack boats, known as the “mosquito fleet,” as part of its asymmetric warfare strategy.
  • These vessels depend on speed and maneuverability to overwhelm defenses and disrupt conventional naval forces.

French Shipping Company Confirms Vessel Fired Upon in Hormuz

CMA CGM:

  • The French shipping company said one of its vessels was targeted by gunfire in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • It described the incident as warning shots, confirming that the crew was safe.

Trump: US Warship Intercepted Iranian Vessel

TRUTH SOCIAL:

  • President Donald Trump said a US destroyer intercepted an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel attempting to breach the maritime blockade.
  • He claimed the vessel was disabled after refusing to comply with warnings.

Iranian Ambassador: No Progress While Blockade Continues

IRANIAN AMBASSADOR TO PAKISTAN:

  • Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam said disagreements will persist as long as the maritime blockade remains in place.
  • He added that the US cannot intensify pressure and threaten destruction while claiming to pursue diplomacy.

Iran Weighs Participation in Islamabad Talks

AL JAZEERA:

  • A high-level Iranian meeting is expected to decide on participation in the Islamabad negotiations.
  • Sources say Tehran is waiting for concrete guarantees from Pakistan regarding lifting the US blockade, stressing that talks may not begin unless the blockade is removed.
Sun, Apr 19, 10:16 PM (Palestine Time)

Scale of Mass Detention across West Bank Revealed — Prisoners’ Society

Israel has detained over 23,000 Palestinians since October 2023 as raids, arrests, and settler violence escalate across the West Bank.

Scale of Mass Detention across West Bank Revealed — Prisoners’ Society

Sun, Apr 19, 10:15 PM (Palestine Time)

Israel Concerned Over Potential Sanctions Relief for Iran

CHANNEL 12:

  • Israel is concerned that lifting sanctions would strengthen the system, while the war had aimed to weaken it through economic pressure.
  • Officials said a potential agreement could delay the Iranian threat but keep the system in place, which remains a key concern.
  • A proposed framework reportedly includes halting uranium enrichment, full oversight of nuclear sites, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, ending the war, US withdrawal, and lifting sanctions.

Last-Chance Talks Ahead of US-Iran Negotiations in Pakistan

AL JAZEERA NET:

  • Observers describe the upcoming round of negotiations as “last-chance talks,” especially after Trump threatened to destroy Iran if it rejects the US proposal.
  • Iran, in turn, has signaled it may not participate, accusing the United States of violating the ceasefire and imposing an illegal blockade.
  • The first round of talks in Islamabad ended without progress on key disputes, including Iran’s nuclear and missile programs and navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran Explores Ways to Bypass US Blockade

AL JAZEERA NET:

  • A report examines how Iran is attempting to bypass the US blockade on its ports.
  • It outlines the methods Tehran uses to continue exporting oil despite US maritime monitoring.

Pakistan Reaffirms Mediation Role

PAKISTANI PM:

  • Pakistan’s prime minister reaffirmed to Iran’s president the country’s commitment to its role as a mediator.
  • He stressed efforts to achieve lasting peace and regional stability.
Sun, Apr 19, 9:54 PM (Palestine Time)

Partial Progress, Significant Gaps: Inside Iran-US Talks as Deadline Approaches

Iran says it is “still far from a final agreement” as talks continue, insisting key demands cannot be compromised.

Partial Progress, Significant Gaps: Inside Iran-US Talks as Deadline Approaches

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*