US says warships passed Hormuz amid ongoing talks with Iran

Two American naval vessels are launching a mine-clearing operation in the Strait of Hormuz, according to the U.S. military. Simultaneously, U.S. and Iranian representatives are engaged in face-to-face discussions in Islamabad, Pakistan. DW provides additional context on recent developments in the Middle East as of Saturday, April 11.

Strait of Hormuz Operations Begin

The U.S. Central Command (Centcom) confirmed that two warships had traversed the Strait of Hormuz to initiate mine-clearing efforts. “We have commenced establishing a secure corridor, which we aim to share with maritime operators to ensure unimpeded trade,” stated Admiral Brad Cooper, Centcom’s commander. This move follows Iran’s prior claim of warning U.S. vessels against entering the strait, with threats of engagement. The U.S. dismissed the warning, asserting no such communication was received.

Lebanon Ceasefire Talks and US Demands

A source informed DW that negotiations in Islamabad are addressing a proposed ceasefire in Lebanon. Iran has consistently emphasized the need for this agreement. The nation also seeks to have its financial assets thawed and longstanding sanctions lifted, which have strained its economy. While the delegations are in cautious dialogue, there is hope for extending the truce and advancing toward a durable peace. “The talks may soon yield a significant and constructive resolution,” the source added.

Washington is open to easing sanctions but insists on securing nuclear and missile concessions from Iran. The U.S. also aims for the Strait of Hormuz to be reopened without conditions. Meanwhile, Hezbollah supporters gathered in Beirut to demonstrate against planned U.S.-led talks with Israel. Protesters waved Iranian and Hezbollah flags and displayed images of the late leader Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an Israeli strike in September 2024.

UN Agencies Call for Immediate Ceasefire

On Saturday, heads of several United Nations agencies released an open letter urging an end to military actions violating international law in the Middle East. The statement, authored by UN humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher and other officials, condemned “persistent breaches of war rules and international humanitarian principles.”

French President Emmanuel Macron shared his perspective on X, stating he had conversed with Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian during the ongoing negotiations. “I highlighted the urgency for Iran to reinstate navigation freedom and security in Hormuz, with France prepared to assist,” Macron noted. The continuation of Israeli attacks in Lebanon, despite the U.S.-Iran ceasefire agreement, has complicated the deal. DPA reported that U.S. assurances to Israel include reducing strikes over the weekend to enable a potential ceasefire by Wednesday.

President Donald Trump claimed U.S. warships crossed the contested Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, accusing Iran of maintaining control over the critical waterway since the U.S. and Israel’s February 28 assault on the Islamic Republic. Trump expressed frustration that allies had not actively supported the operation to open the strait, which he described as a “favor” to nations like China, Japan, and France, which he said lacked the resolve to act independently.

Iranian media cited navy officials warning U.S. sailors that further advance would invite attack. The Iranian delegation in Islamabad formally protested the incursion and requested the vessels return. As the talks continue, the focus remains on balancing regional security and economic stability in the region.