Washington, DC, April 25 (ANI): US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth described the ongoing conflict involving Iran as “a gift to the world,” asserting that American maritime restrictions targeting Iranian shipping will continue indefinitely.
Speaking to reporters at the Pentagon, Hegseth said the naval blockade is central to what he characterized as a “bold and dangerous” mission aimed at countering Iran’s perceived threat to global stability. US officials maintain that the operation has already led to the interception of 34 vessels.
However, maritime tracking data suggests that Iran continues to export sanctioned oil despite the blockade. According to Lloyd’s List Intelligence, a steady flow of “shadow fleet” tankers has been observed moving through the Persian Gulf, including 11 vessels reportedly carrying Iranian cargo that departed from the Gulf of Oman since April 13.
Responding to US actions, Iranian state media outlet Press TV quoted Defense Ministry spokesperson Reza Talaei-Nik as warning that a significant portion of Iran’s missile capabilities remains unused. He also claimed that Iranian forces maintained control over the skies of contested areas until just before the ceasefire.
Talaei-Nik highlighted what he described as strong domestic support, calling participation in a national “Sacrifice” campaign—reportedly involving over 30 million people—a “social miracle” and an example of large-scale public mobilization.
He accused adversaries of attempting to destabilize Iran internally but said coordinated efforts by security agencies and public vigilance have maintained stability. He further asserted that the Strait of Hormuz remains under Iran’s control, describing it as a strategic lever for advancing national interests.
Amid these tensions, a report by the Institute for the Study of War pointed to internal divisions within Iran’s leadership. The assessment indicated that Ahmad Vahidi and his allies have repeatedly resisted efforts by more moderate figures, including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, to adopt a more flexible negotiating stance.
Despite these divisions, diplomatic activity continues. US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to arrive in Pakistan for a new round of talks with Iranian representatives.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the initiative for the meeting came from Tehran, adding that the US remains open to diplomacy. She said updates from the talks would be relayed to President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance.
The diplomatic push follows a regional tour announced by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, which includes visits to Islamabad, Muscat, and Moscow to coordinate with key partners. However, Iranian officials have not confirmed any direct meeting with US representatives.
At the Pentagon, Hegseth reiterated that the United States is not under pressure to reach an agreement, quoting President Trump as saying the US “has all the time in the world” while urging Tehran to pursue what he called a “good” and “wise” deal. (ANI)
About The Author
