Uncertainty grows as Trump maintains Iran blockade and delays talks

Uncertainty is mounting over the future of the U.S.-Iran conflict as Donald Trump signals no urgency to resume negotiations or finalize a ceasefire deal.

(NBC)- In a new interview, Trump said he feels “no time pressure” to restart talks, a stance reinforced by the White House.

“The president has not set a deadline himself. Ultimately, he will dictate the timetable,” said Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

While negotiations remain on hold, the U.S. is continuing its blockade of Iranian ports. U.S. Central Command says forces have turned away 31 ships—mostly oil tankers—cutting off key exports and costing Iran an estimated $435 million per day.

“We are completely strangling their economy,” Leavitt said.

Iran, however, calls the blockade a violation of the ceasefire and says it will not negotiate until it is lifted.

Tensions escalated further after Iranian state media released video it claims shows Iranian forces seizing commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz—a critical global shipping route.

At the same time, leadership changes are adding to the uncertainty in Washington.

NBC News reports John Phelan has been removed from his position following growing tensions with Pete Hegseth. Sources say disagreements over shipbuilding strategy and pace played a key role in the decision.

The shakeup follows recent removals of high-ranking military leaders, drawing criticism from Democrats.

“These guys are flailing from the top down,” said Mark Kelly.

On Capitol Hill, lawmakers are also pushing for limits on the president’s authority to continue military operations without congressional approval, as a 60-day deadline approaches under the War Powers Resolution.