Iran Accuses U.S. of Economic Suffocation as Mediation Efforts Intensify

In a sharp escalation of rhetoric, Iranian Treasury Chief Ehsan Khandouzi accused the United States of using its naval blockade to "suffocate" Iran’s economy. Khandouzi framed the current U.S. strategy as forcing a choice between an "impossible" war or a "bad deal," as Tehran continues to seek sanctions relief through its 14-point peace proposal. The economic pressure comes amid a tightening of restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns over potential humanitarian shortages. Simultaneously, Pakistan has emerged as a key mediator in the crisis. The Pakistani Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, and Army Chief are reportedly engaged in persistent back-channel efforts to bridge the gap between the Trump administration and Tehran. These efforts build upon last month's discussions in Islamabad, where Iran officially submitted its peace response. Sources indicate these diplomatic pushes are being kept quiet to avoid de-railing delicate negotiations. Regionally, the conflict is facing internal and external pressures. In Tel Aviv, left-wing activists gathered at HaBima Square to protest Israel's involvement in the standoff with Iran and current government policies. Meanwhile, in Lebanon, persistent violence continues to test the durability of a fragile U.S.-Iran ceasefire agreement, signaling that regional stability remains precarious despite active diplomatic channels.