A ship bound for Pakistan was reportedly stopped by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz. The ship lacked the clearance and legal requirements needed to cross the strategic corridor. The vessel named Selen was en route to Karachi. This happened immediately after Iran approved Pakistan to act as a mediator in the peace negotiation with the United States. Tehran had earlier stated to the United Nations Security Council and the International Maritime Organization that any ‘non-hostile vessel’ will be allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, however the vessel must disclose its coordinates to Iranian authorities. The ongoing US-Israeli conflict has triggered global energy supply issues.

What has Iran conveyed to the UN Secretary-General?

On Sunday, Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs sent a communication to the 15-member Security Council and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. This communication was later circulated among 176 member states of the UN maritime body.

Is Pakistan acting as a peace negotiator between Iran and the US?

It is expected that Pakistan will act as a host between Iran and the United States, Tehran has agreed to Pakistan’s mediation role. This significant development happened after the US pressured Iran to come to the negotiation table, following Trump’s announcement of a temporary five-day ceasefire.

As per the media report, Iran has decided to first send its conditions in a written proposal, and the US will review them. It is expected the initial discussion won’t be direct, but representatives from both countries will have a “back-and-forth” discussion format. Sources have confirmed that Iran has agreed to consider a ‘legitimate’ proposal, but only through a mediator. Iran has agreed to mediation. One source shared, “The terms and agenda will be finalised and shared by Iran, currently Pakistan is waiting to receive documents from Iran.”