A senior commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed on Saturday that the US naval blockade of Iranian ports remains in effect. The allegation came a day after President Donald Trump said the blockade would be lifted as part of efforts to advance negotiations with Tehran. The dispute highlights continuing tensions despite ongoing diplomatic contacts between the two countries.
Mohsen Rezaei, a senior IRGC figure and adviser to Iran’s leadership, accused Trump of “betraying diplomacy” by maintaining pressure while pursuing negotiations. According to Iranian media reports, Rezaei argued that the continuation of the blockade contradicted Washington’s public statements about seeking a peaceful resolution. He also criticized what he described as excessive US demands during the talks.
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The disagreement follows Trump’s announcement that Iran would need to meet several conditions before a broader agreement could move forward. These reportedly include guarantees that Tehran will not acquire nuclear weapons, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the removal of maritime mines, and the elimination of enriched uranium stockpiles. Trump also stated that the naval blockade on Iranian ports would be lifted.
However, Iran’s Tasnim News Agency reported that sailors had observed no change in the blockade’s status. Iranian officials maintain that restrictions on maritime activity remain in place. The issue has become a key point of contention as both sides continue exchanging proposals aimed at reviving negotiations after earlier rounds of talks failed to produce an agreement.
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The dispute comes against the backdrop of wider regional tensions and intermittent confrontations in the Strait of Hormuz. While a ceasefire has largely reduced direct hostilities, disagreements over shipping access, sanctions, and nuclear issues continue to complicate diplomatic efforts. Observers say the outcome of these negotiations could have significant implications for regional security, energy markets, and global trade.