US President: No negotiations underway or scheduled with Iran

Washington, Aug 18 (KUNA) -- U.S. President Donald Trump denied on Tuesday that any negotiations were underway or scheduled with Iran, while affirming the strength and effectiveness of the naval blockade against the country. In a brief post on his Truth Social platform, President Trump stated, “There are no talks or dialogues underway or scheduled with Iran, and the naval blockade remains fully in effect and enforced.” He also reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz “is open and operating normally,” noting that all naval mines planted by Iran in the strait had been removed or detonated. Earlier, in televised remarks, the U.S. president said Iran should declare surrender, following the expiration on Monday of a ceasefire deadline agreed upon by both sides to reach a final deal addressing sanctions, the nuclear program, and other outstanding issues. On July 14, the U.S. Navy resumed a blockade of Iranian ports, following directives from President Trump, in response to the obstruction of maritime navigation and attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. (End) A.M.M. / N.S.A.