Desk report, International :
US President Donald Trump said Sunday that “very positive discussions” were under way with Iran on finding a solution to the crisis, but nevertheless added that the United States will soon start escorting ships through the blocked Strait of Hormuz.

Earlier, a spokesman for Iran’s foreign ministry, Esmaeil Baqaei, told state television that Tehran had submitted a 14-point plan “focused on ending the war,” and that Washington had responded to it in a message to Pakistani mediators.

“I am fully aware that my Representatives are having very positive discussions with the Country of Iran, and that these discussions could lead to something very positive for all,” Trump said on his Truth Social platform.

Iran has maintained a stranglehold on the strategic Strait of Hormuz since the US and Israel launches strikes on Iran on February 28. In retaliation, Tehran has hit targets in Israel and Gulf nations.

The statement made no mention of what Tehran described as a 14-point plan “focused on ending the war,” and which Iran’s foreign minister said Washington had already responded to it in a message to Pakistani mediators.

“We are reviewing this and will take whatever response is necessary regarding it,” spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei told state television.

Negotiations between the two countries have been deadlocked since a ceasefire came into effect on April 8, with only one round of direct peace talks held so far.

“I am fully aware that my Representatives are having very positive discussions with the Country of Iran, and that these discussions could lead to something very positive for all,” Trump said.

By blocking the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has choked off major flows of oil, gas and fertilizer to the world economy, while the United States has imposed a counter-blockade on Iranian ports.

As of April 29, more than 900 commercial vessels were located in the Gulf, according to maritime intelligence firm AXSMarine.

“The Ship movement is merely meant to free up people, companies, and Countries that have done absolutely nothing wrong — They are victims of circumstance.”