Iran demands end to West Asia war before reopening Strait of Hormuz

Iran has stipulated that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is contingent upon the cessation of conflicts across West Asia. Mohsen Rezaei, Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, informed Al Manar TV that any understanding with the United States regarding the vital waterway must encompass the end of military operations in Lebanon, Gaza, and Syria.

Rezaei further specified that the conflict in the Gaza Strip must conclude, and Israel must withdraw from Lebanon while ceasing attacks on Syria. He emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz cannot be separated from the wider regional conflicts, asserting that the U.S. must demonstrate its commitment before new trust can be established.

“

any understanding with the US regarding the strait would include ending the war and military operations in Lebanon, Gaza and Syria.

However, a return to diplomacy appears distant. The Wall Street Journal reported that the Trump administration is not interested in revisiting the terms of a previously reached memorandum of understanding with Iran. Instead, the administration is reportedly waiting to see if its strategy of applying economic pressure on Tehran will yield results.

On Monday, the U.S. announced an 'Economic Determination Day' campaign, threatening countries conducting business with Iran. This signals a shift from military actions to economic pressure. Iran currently permits a temporary and limited corridor for ships through the Strait of Hormuz, with the future of maritime traffic depending on developments in its understanding with Washington.

“

The Strait of Hormuz cannot be separated from the wider regional conflicts and the US must prove its sincerity in implementing these commitments before new trust can be built.