Day 63 of Iran Conflict: President Pezeshkian Urges U.S. to Lift Port Blockade; Trump Hints At Possible Resumption of War

The regional situation remains tense as Iran, the U.S., and Israel continue exchanging warnings. On the 63rd day since hostilities erupted, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described the U.S. blockade of Iran’s ports as 'an extension of the military campaign' and 'unbearable.' Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington 'may need' to restart the war, adding that only a few people know details of ongoing negotiations.

Developments in Iran

Iran’s Tasnim and Fars news agencies reported that Tehran’s air defense system was activated on the evening of April 30 in response to small aircraft and drones. Analysts suggest Tehran was prepared for the blockade: crude oil stored at sea, high prices mitigating impact, and a large domestic market, because Iran is accustomed to 'much harsher' conditions after years of pressure.

Diplomacy and War

Retired U.S. General Mark Kimmitt argued that Iran’s strategy of military and economic pressure is unlikely to force Washington to the negotiating table, warning that 'the compass hasn’t changed' and the stalemate could drag on. However, rising international pressure could push talks and prevent Tehran from seizing control of the Strait of Hormuz.

The U.S. Embassy in Lebanon called for a meeting between Lebanese and Israeli leaders, while Lebanon’s Health Ministry said Israeli attacks on southern Lebanon killed at least 15 people, despite a ceasefire in effect.

President Trump also threatened to withdraw U.S. troops from Italy and Spain because they oppose the Iran war, a day after proposing a similar troop reduction in Germany.

Persian Gulf Region

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has banned its citizens from traveling to Iran, Lebanon, and Iraq, and urged those already there to leave quickly and return home, citing regional developments.

In the U.S.

President Trump has not ruled out resuming war, claiming Iranian leaders 'really want a deal,' while boasting about damage to Iran’s drone and missile capabilities, and predicting gasoline prices will drop after the conflict ends.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth assured senators that the Pentagon has 'all necessary resources' to limit civilian casualties, after lawmakers questioned an early-war attack that killed about 170 people at an Iranian elementary school. He said human oversight remains when AI is used in military decisions. According to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists in Iran organization, at least 1,701 civilians have died in the war, including 254 children.

A senior U.S. administration official confirmed that, for War Powers Act purposes, U.S. hostilities with Iran that began in February have now 'ceased.' A two-week ceasefire from April 7 was agreed upon and has been renewed. 'No exchange of fire between U.S. and Iranian armed forces has occurred since April 7,' the official said.

In Israel

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that Israel may soon need to 'act again' against Iran to ensure the Islamic Republic 'does not again become a threat to Israel.'

In Lebanon

Israeli attacks on three villages in southern Lebanon killed nine people, including two children and five women, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry, nearly two weeks after the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. Two Israeli soldiers were wounded after a drone exploded in southern Lebanon, the military confirmed. An officer and a non-commissioned officer sustained moderate injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment.

Global Economy

Oil prices surged to four-year highs, with benchmark U.S. Brent crude for June delivery rising more than 7% to $126.41 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate climbed 3.4% to $110.31, before paring gains.