US–Iran war LIVE: Iran accuses United States of ‘piracy’ at United Nations amid Strait of Hormuz tensions

Amid rising maritime tensions, Iran has lodged a formal complaint with the United Nations, accusing the United States of “piracy” over the seizure of Iranian vessels. According to Tasnim News Agency, the complaint was detailed in a letter by Iran’s UN envoy Amir Saeid Iravani to Secretary-General António Guterres and members of the Security Council.

Hormuz leverage amid conflict

Iran signalled it could reopen the Strait of Hormuz — a critical global energy route — but only if hostilities end. Deputy Defence Minister Reza Talaei Nik said commercial shipping would resume once the United States and Israel halt what Tehran calls aggression, and security protocols are met.

Despite a ceasefire with Washington, Iran’s military said the broader West Asia conflict “remains a war,” maintaining operational readiness and control over the Strait, according to state media.

Trump, King Charles and nuclear stance

Former US president Donald Trump said King Charles III shares his view that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons, remarks made during the monarch’s US visit. Addressing Congress, King Charles described the global moment as one of “great uncertainty,” urging stronger alignment among Western allies.

Trump has also criticised the United Kingdom for what he sees as insufficient backing in the conflict.

Talks stall, tensions persist

Efforts to resolve the conflict remain deadlocked. Iran has proposed delaying nuclear talks until after hostilities and maritime disputes ease, but Trump has insisted the nuclear issue be addressed immediately.

A US official said this stance was reiterated in internal meetings, while the White House maintained that its “red lines” remain unchanged. Trump, posting on Truth Social, claimed Iran was in a “state of collapse” and seeking the reopening of Hormuz amid internal uncertainty.

Israel-Hezbollah clashes continue

In Lebanon, Israeli strikes killed eight people, including civil defence personnel, according to the health ministry, despite an existing ceasefire. Fighting between Hezbollah and Israel has persisted since early March, with sporadic violence continuing after a fragile truce announced on April 17.

US weighs prolonged blockade

Washington is preparing for a sustained blockade strategy against Iran, according to reports citing US officials. The approach focuses on tightening restrictions on shipping and oil exports, with Trump reportedly viewing alternatives such as renewed military action or disengagement as riskier options.

UAE to exit OPEC

Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates announced it will exit the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) from May 1.

While the move is unlikely to have an immediate impact — given supply constraints linked to the conflict and Hormuz disruptions — it could influence prices over the longer term if the UAE ramps up production. Brent crude remains elevated, trading above $111 per barrel, more than 50% higher than pre-war levels.