Iran accuses US of piracy over blockade

Iran has accused the United States of violating a Pakistan-brokered ceasefire through acts of 'piracy,' specifically referencing the ongoing U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports and coasts. This accusation comes as Iran reasserts control over the Strait of Hormuz, a key point of leverage in the nearly seven-week conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran. Despite the escalation, Pakistani mediators report that the U.S. and Iran are moving closer to a deal ahead of an April 22 ceasefire deadline, with a second round of talks expected in Islamabad next week. The recent ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon is seen as a positive development that could facilitate a broader agreement.