The United States military has increased the number of merchant vessels diverted in the Strait of Hormuz to 84 as part of a perimeter closure in the region. According to the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), four vessels have also been immobilized as of May 18.
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy corridor, remains under high tension following more than a month of maritime restrictions imposed by Washington. Iranian authorities have challenged these measures, arguing that the blockade and the seizure of ships violate a ceasefire established on April 8.
Military Postponement and Regional Diplomacy
The announcement from CENTCOM coincided with President Donald Trump’s decision to suspend a planned military attack against Iran. The president stated that he made this choice following requests from the leaders of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
Trump specifically noted that Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud of Saudi Arabia, and President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the UAE asked for the postponement of the strike.
The U.S. President indicated that “serious negotiations” are currently taking place. He expressed confidence that an agreement “very acceptable” to the United States and other Middle Eastern countries could be reached.
Nuclear Mandates and Military Readiness
A central component of any potential agreement would be the prohibition of nuclear weapons for Iran. Trump has already issued instructions to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, General Daniel Caine, and the U.S. Armed Forces to cancel the attack that was scheduled for Tuesday.
Despite the postponement, the administration has warned that U.S. Forces remain ready to act. Trump stated he has given instructions for the military to be prepared for a “large-scale attack” at any moment if an acceptable agreement is not reached.
This caution follows a telephone interview with the New York Post, where Trump asserted he is “not willing to [concede] anything” regarding Iran’s nuclear program and suggested that Iran “knows what is going to happen soon.”
Indirect Negotiations via Pakistan
From Tehran, President Masud Pezeshkian responded that engaging in dialogue with Washington does not imply a surrender of Iranian positions. Pezeshkian stated that the Islamic Republic will preserve the rights and honor of the nation “under no circumstances.”
Diplomatic efforts are being conducted indirectly, with Pakistan serving as the intermediary. This process has been ongoing since the April 8 ceasefire, though differences between the two nations have so far prevented a second formal round of negotiations.
Esmaeil Baqaei, the spokesperson for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, confirmed that diplomatic contacts remain active. Reports indicate that the U.S. Recently transmitted a series of “revised points and considerations” through Pakistan in response to a previous 14-point proposal submitted by Iran.
Potential Next Steps
The trajectory of the conflict may depend on whether the “revised points” sent by the U.S. Align with Iran’s 14-point proposal. If a consensus on the nuclear prohibition is not reached, the U.S. May proceed with the large-scale military strike previously mentioned by the president.
the continued blockade in the Strait of Hormuz could further strain relations if Iran continues to view the maritime restrictions as a breach of the April 8 ceasefire.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ships have been affected by the U.S. Blockade?
As of May 18, the U.S. Central Command reported that 84 merchant ships have been diverted and four have been immobilized.
Who is mediating the talks between the U.S. And Iran?
Pakistan is serving as the intermediary for the indirect diplomatic process.
What is the primary U.S. Demand for a peace agreement?
President Trump has stated that any eventual understanding must include the prohibition of nuclear weapons for Iran.
How do you think indirect negotiations will impact the stability of global energy corridors?
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