White House says no scheduled talks with Iran, naval blockade in place

WASHINGTON, United States — WASHINGTON — A White House official said there are no ongoing or scheduled talks or negotiations between the United States and Iran, adding that a naval blockade on Iran is being enforced effectively. The official also confirmed that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to maritime traffic and that sea mines in the area have been cleared. The U.S. administration had previously announced that no direct negotiations were being held with Iran. The latest remarks come as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to rise. The White House stressed that maritime restrictions on Iran are being implemented firmly. The official said mine-clearing operations in the region have been completed to ensure maritime security.