Iran Talks Progress Despite Far From Deal: Ghalibaf

Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated Saturday night that discussions with the U.S. to end the conflict have progressed but are far from an agreement. Tehran maintains the crucial Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until Washington lifts its naval blockade on Iranian ports.

Ghalibaf said in a televised address, “We made progress in negotiations, but there are many gaps and some fundamental points remain.” He also noted that some people believe their military power has been destroyed, suggesting they should proceed without negotiation.

Meanwhile, an Israeli reserve soldier was killed and nine injured in southern Lebanon due to ceasefire violations, according to the Israeli army. The temporary 10-day truce between Israel and Lebanon began at midnight Thursday local time.

At least two vessels were reportedly attacked while trying to transit the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday. India summoned Iran’s ambassador in New Delhi over the incident, expressing concern about Indian-flagged ships coming under fire.

U.S. Central Command enforced a maritime blockade of Iran but did not comment on Iranian actions. Tehran has proposed halting its nuclear activity for 20 years, while Iran suggested a three to five-year halt. No date was set for the next round of negotiations, with U.S. President Donald Trump stating there could be talks this weekend and that both sides were “very close to making a deal.”