Iran chief negotiator says Hormuz will be administered by Tehran: State media

Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, declared that the Strait of Hormuz will be administered by Tehran, signaling a significant shift in control following talks aimed at ending the US-Israeli war. Ghalibaf made these remarks upon returning from negotiations in Switzerland, where Iran and the United States reportedly agreed to establish communication channels to maintain the vital shipping route's openness and halt hostilities in Lebanon.

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The Strait of Hormuz will never return to its pre-war conditions and will be administered by the Islamic Republic of Iran, in accordance with international law.

During the talks, Iran and the US reached an agreement that included the temporary suspension of sanctions on Iranian oil. This move by the US followed Vice President JD Vance's announcement that Tehran would permit UN nuclear inspectors to resume their inspections in the country. The deal also anticipates some form of sanctions relief from Washington and the unfreezing of Iranian assets.

Ghalibaf described the negotiations at the Burgenstock resort as productive, highlighting achievements related to the Strait of Hormuz, discussions on Lebanon, oil waivers, and the release of frozen funds. He acknowledged that this is just the beginning of the process, emphasizing the need for continued efforts.

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In my view, this trip had good achievements, especially regarding the discussion of the Strait, the Lebanon discussions, the question of oil waiver, and the matter of releasing the frozen funds.

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil transport, had been closed by Iran at the war's outset but reopened last week after an initial agreement. However, Tehran recently closed it again in response to Israeli attacks in Lebanon. The newly established communication line between the US and Iran aims to prevent incidents and miscommunications, ensuring safe passage for commercial vessels through the waterway, according to mediators from Qatar and Pakistan.

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Of course, we believe we are still at the beginning of this work and must continue our efforts.