US-Israel-Iran War News Live Updates: Iran contradicts Trump; warns Hormuz may 'not remain open' under blockade

US-Iran-Israel War News Live Updates: President of Iran Masoud Pezeshkian on Friday said that the “steadfastness” of the Iranian people forced United States–Israel forces to retreat during a 40-day conflict, according to state media. He stressed the importance of accurately portraying the war and highlighting national resilience, claiming public unity thwarted destabilisation efforts and strengthened cohesion despite external pressure.His remarks come as a fragile 10-day truce takes effect in Lebanon, aimed at halting fighting between Israel and the Iran-backed Hezbollah. Celebrations erupted in Beirut, though uncertainty remains, with displaced civilians cautiously returning home. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the ceasefire would not involve troop withdrawal, with forces maintaining a “security zone” in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah has warned it may respond to any violations.Even as backchannel diplomacy continues, tensions remain high. The United States has maintained a naval blockade on Iranian ports for a third straight day, ramping up economic pressure on Tehran. Officials in Washington have warned of further sanctions on countries and entities doing business with Iran, signalling what one senior official described as the “financial equivalent” of a bombing campaign.The US has deployed naval assets to monitor and control access to Iranian ports, aiming to restrict Tehran’s oil exports, a key source of revenue. While Washington says non-Iran-linked shipping can still pass through the Strait of Hormuz, military activity in the region has intensified.President Donald Trump reinforced the hardline stance, announcing a sweeping blockade. “Effective immediately, the United States Navy, the Finest in the World, will begin the process of BLOCKADING any and all Ships trying to enter, or leave, the Strait of Hormuz,” he said, warning that “Any Iranian who fires at us, or at peaceful vessels, will be BLOWN TO HELL!”Iran responded with strong warnings of its own, with the Revolutionary Guards cautioning that any misstep would trap adversaries in a “deadly” situation in the strategic waterway, which Tehran says it fully controls.Markets have reacted nervously. Oil prices have surged back above $100 per barrel, while global equities have declined amid fears of prolonged disruption to energy supplies. Analysts warn that the blockade risks being seen as a continuation of hostilities, raising the possibility of further escalation, including strikes on critical energy infrastructure.Key TakeawaysPakistan steps up mediation; army chief visits Tehran for talksUS-Iran ceasefire under strain, possible extension under discussionUS enforces naval blockade on Iranian ports for third dayWashington warns of tougher sanctions on countries dealing with IranStrait of Hormuz remains partially open for non-Iran-linked shippingDonald Trump announces sweeping blockade, warns of retaliationIran threatens countermeasures, asserts control over key waterwayOil prices surge above $100; global markets show volatility amid rising tensions