By Alexia Bangayan

Following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, tensions between Iran and the United States (U.S.) remain as diplomatic efforts continue without a clear resolution, on Sunday, April 19.

Despite reports of some progress in negotiations in Pakistan, Iranian officials have stated that a final agreement is still far off due to unresolved disagreements on both sides. 

According to Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, speaker of the Iranian parliament, discussions with Washington have shown ”progress,” but significant issues remain unsettled.

He added that both sides are still ”far from the final discussion.”

In a written statement, Iran’s supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, stated that the country’s navy ”stands ready” to confront the U.S.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump said that conversations with Iran are ongoing, but warned Tehran against what he described as attempts to ”blackmail” the U.S.

Iranian officials have also maintained that restrictions on the strait are linked to the continued blockade of its ports.

Security reports indicated rising tensions in the area, with warnings issued that unauthorized passage through the Strait of Hormuz “will be considered cooperation with the enemy, and the offending vessel will be targeted.”

Moreover, several maritime incidents were reported, with vessels being struck or fired upon while attempting to navigate the waterway.

As of present, the ceasefire will remain in effect until Wednesday, April 22, as diplomatic discussions continue without a confirmed breakthrough.