The Iranian authorities have stated the possibility of withdrawing from the negotiation process with the United States following the incident involving the seizure of the Iranian-flagged vessel Touska by American naval forces. Representatives from Tehran view the actions of the US as a violation of agreements and are considering implementing retaliatory measures, citing Washington’s inconsistency.
This is reported by Business • Media
Iran’s Position and the Course of Negotiations
Iranian officials have noted that the prospects for reaching a consensus with the US remain elusive. Official representatives of the country have denied reports of participation in a second round of negotiations, emphasizing that a final decision on this matter has not yet been made. According to Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Bakayi, the negotiation process is complicated by constant changes in Washington’s position and the lack of constructive agreements. The US, he stated, has put forward a proposal consisting of 15 points; however, the inconsistency of American policy creates additional obstacles for dialogue.
“The excessive demands of the US, unreasonable and unrealistic expectations, frequent changes in position, constant contradictions, as well as the so-called maritime blockade that violates ceasefire agreements, along with threatening rhetoric, continue to hinder progress in negotiations.”
The US decision to seize the Iranian vessel Touska was explained by President Donald Trump as the ship being under sanctions due to its “involvement in illegal activities.” American military officials reported that the vessel was warned before they opened fire. In response, the Iranian authorities announced preparations for countermeasures, labeling the incident as “an act of piracy” and questioning the feasibility of further negotiations in such an atmosphere.
Hormuz Blockade, Market Reaction, and Economic Risks
This conflict has become a logical continuation of the tension between the US and Iran, which has intensified following the unsuccessful first round of negotiations and President Trump’s imposition of a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz. The truce between the countries will only last until April 22, 2026, which heightens the risks of further escalation.
Despite the worsening situation, there has been no significant reaction from the stock or cryptocurrency markets. However, most digital assets have shown negative dynamics over the day.
At the same time, crude oil prices have risen: Brent increased by 3.7%, while WTI rose by more than 5%. Experts note that a prolonged military-political conflict in the Middle East could become a precursor to a global recession, according to the latest IMF forecasts.