WANA (Apr 13) – Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of Iran’s Parliament, reacted to recent remarks by Donald Trump regarding the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by warning American citizens about a potential surge in fuel prices.

 

Ghalibaf shared an image showing the latest gasoline prices at stations near the White House on the social platform X, writing: “Enjoy the current gas prices. With what is being called a ‘blockade,’ you will soon miss $4–$5 gasoline.”

 

He also presented a new formula explaining rising oil prices, emphasizing that any move to block the Strait of Hormuz would drive global energy prices even higher and further complicate U.S. energy policies.

 

These remarks come as Trump, in an interview with Fox News, referred to tougher options in case negotiations fail and warned of stronger actions against Iran.

 

He highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz for global energy trade, stating that the United States has the capability to block this vital passage if necessary, although such a move would require time and planning.

Amid escalating tensions, Trump also signaled a dual-track approach combining maximum pressure with conditional diplomacy, noting that “a good deal would benefit everyone.”

 

According to reports, the latest round of negotiations between Iran and the United States, held in Islamabad with Pakistan’s mediation, ended without an agreement after nearly 21 hours of intensive talks. Informed sources cited excessive demands from the U.S. side as the main reason for the deadlock.

 

A source close to the Iranian delegation said that requests such as reopening the Strait of Hormuz and handing over enriched materials were raised by the U.S., which Iran considers unacceptable, stressing that its negotiating team remains committed to preserving its achievements.