Daijiworld Media Network - Tehran

Tehran, Apr 19: Iran has reported limited progress in its ongoing discussions with the United States, while cautioning that major differences remain unresolved and a final agreement is still distant, according to local media reports.

The remarks came from Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who said in a televised address that negotiations between Tehran and Washington continue but have not reached a decisive stage. He noted that “fundamental gaps” still exist between both sides.

Ghalibaf added that while dialogue is ongoing, Iran believes it has maintained a strong position during recent tensions. He suggested that the temporary ceasefire currently in place was accepted only after certain Iranian conditions were acknowledged by the United States.

He also stated that Iran continues to hold strategic leverage, particularly in relation to the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy shipping route. According to him, Washington has not achieved its objectives, while Tehran continues to assert control over maritime activity in the region.

Separately, Iran’s Supreme National Security Council reiterated that it will maintain strict oversight of vessel movement through the strait until a lasting peace is established. The council’s position follows earlier announcements from Iran’s military leadership, including the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, which said heightened control measures had been reinstated due to continued US naval restrictions.

Iran outlined a regulatory framework for the waterway that includes mandatory vessel reporting, issuance of transit permissions, collection of security and environmental fees, and navigation controls under wartime protocols.

The current ceasefire arrangement is expected to expire on April 22, and Iranian officials indicated that while negotiations continue, significant political and strategic disagreements remain unresolved.