Iran has formally responded to a U.S. proposal aimed at ending the Middle East conflict, using Pakistan as a mediator. Tehran said its response focuses on ending hostilities across all fronts — especially in Lebanon — while ensuring the security of maritime navigation in the Gulf.
Despite an active ceasefire since April 8, tensions continue to rise at sea. Multiple drone attacks were reported across the Gulf region, including an incident involving a cargo ship near Qatar that caught fire after being struck by a drone. Iran-linked media claimed the vessel was American-owned, though Tehran did not officially claim responsibility.
The latest escalation comes days after U.S. forces targeted two empty Iranian oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman. Iranian officials responded with strong warnings, vowing decisive retaliation against any attacks on Iranian ships or interests.
Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz remains at the center of a growing standoff between Washington and Tehran. Iran continues to tightly control access through the strategic waterway, while the United States has imposed new sanctions and maritime restrictions on Iranian-linked trade.
As clashes between Israel and Hezbollah persist in southern Lebanon despite a separate ceasefire, fears are mounting that the conflict could widen further across the region.
