politics
April 12, 2026
Middle East crisis live: Iranian negotiator says ‘we will not bow to any threats’ as Trump says US navy will blockade strait of Hormuz
Iran had very good initiatives to show goodwill in talks with the US which led to progress in the negotiations, the country’s top negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said in comments carried by state media on Sunday.
TL;DR
- US President Donald Trump announced a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz following failed peace talks with Iran.
- Iran's top negotiator, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, stated that Iran will not be threatened and will respond in kind if attacked.
- An Israeli drone strike in Lebanon killed a paramedic, contributing to the ongoing regional conflict.
- Lebanon's Health Ministry reports 2,055 deaths from Israeli strikes since the start of the latest war with Hezbollah.
- UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron discussed de-escalation and ensuring regional stability.
- Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian suggested an agreement with the US is possible if they abandon 'totalitarianism'.
- US lawmakers are divided along party lines regarding the failure of negotiations and potential future hostilities.
- Iran's navy chief called Trump's blockade threat 'ridiculous'.
- The UK stated it will not participate in any US-led blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
- US 'red lines' for negotiations reportedly included ending uranium enrichment, dismantling facilities, and fully opening the Strait of Hormuz.