Iran Threatens Strait of Hormuz Closure Amid Fragile Nuclear Deal Talks

Tensions between Washington and Tehran reached a critical juncture on April 18, 2026, as Iran warned it would re-close the Strait of Hormuz if the United States does not lift its current naval blockade. This development comes just hours after Tehran had declared the passage open following a ceasefire in Lebanon. While U.S. Central Command reports that 21 ships have been turned back by patrols since the blockade began, the threat of a total maritime shutdown risks disrupting global energy markets and reversing recent stock market gains. Despite the standoff at sea, President Donald Trump expressed high optimism regarding diplomatic efforts mediated by Pakistan and Gulf allies. In a phone interview and social media posts, the President stated that a deal is "very close" and claimed that Tehran has agreed to hand over its enriched uranium. The President indicated there are currently "no sticking points" left in the negotiations and suggested he might fly to Pakistan to finalize a formal agreement. The diplomatic momentum follows 21-hour sessions led by Vice President JD Vance in Islamabad. While a permanent deal has not yet been signed, and the current ceasefire is set to expire this coming Wednesday, the potential handover of uranium marks a significant shift in the nuclear standoff. For now, the U.S. maintains its blockade as leverage, while Iranian officials insist the Strait will not remain open under the current military pressure.