Iran’s Parliament’s National Security Committee Chairman, Ibrahim Azizi, has stated that the ongoing negotiations between Iran and the US are seen as a continuation of the battlefield. He emphasized that Iran has decided to continue negotiations with the US. In an interview with Qatar TV, Azizi clarified that the negotiations do not imply that any concessions will be made at any cost or that the opposing party’s every approach will be accepted. He stated that Iran has clearly defined red lines that must be respected and that Iran’s negotiating strategy is based on the country’s national interests and security demands.
The first phase of the negotiations between Iran and the US took place in Islamabad on April 11, and the two delegations engaged in nearly 21 hours of talks, but unfortunately, no agreement was reached. Iran has reopened its two major airports in Tehran, signaling a positive approach to participation in the talks. However, no final decision has been made.
In related news, the Emirati state security service has arrested several members of a terrorist organization. US President Donald Trump stated that the negotiations are ongoing and that there is no “game” being played. He added that if a breakthrough is achieved, he is willing to meet with the Iranian leadership.
In other developments, the Austrian oil and gas company has purchased crude oil from the emergency reserve, and China has expressed concern over the US move to seize Iranian cargo ships. The Palestinian Ministry of Health reported that two Palestinians were killed in Israeli military attacks in the Gaza Strip over the past 24 hours. Chinese President Xi Jinping stated that China supports a swift and comprehensive ceasefire.
In a separate incident, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed dissatisfaction over the destruction of a statue of Jesus Christ by Israeli soldiers. US President Donald Trump has taken a contradictory stance in the ongoing tensions with Iran, releasing harsh statements while also expressing a desire for a permanent peace agreement.
According to Iranian sources, the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is hindering the peace negotiations. The value of Iran’s frozen assets and the amount held in various countries are not known.
In sports news, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has banned a Sri Lankan cricketer for one year. Bollywood veteran Arshad Warsi revealed that Amitabh Bachchan and his wife Jaya Bachchan are among the first to wish him on his birthday every year.
