Iran insists on control of Strait of Hormuz amid US talks

Iran has reiterated its determination to maintain control over the vital Strait of Hormuz, a central point of contention in the latest round of Middle East war talks with Washington that recently concluded in Switzerland. Despite an initial agreement, significant issues, including Iran's nuclear program and the administration of the crucial waterway, remain unresolved.

Vice President JD Vance described the negotiations as a "very good foundation" for a final deal, noting that Washington had suspended sanctions on Iranian oil. However, Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, stated firmly that "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." This stance directly contrasts with US President Donald Trump's demand for an unconditional reopening of Hormuz to marine traffic.

Technical talks following the higher-level negotiations have concluded, with working groups to be established on nuclear issues and sanctions, according to Iranian state media. The Strait of Hormuz, a major conduit for global oil supply, had reopened briefly last week after an initial agreement but was closed again by Tehran in response to Israeli attacks 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.

Mediators from Qatar and Pakistan facilitated an agreement between Washington and Tehran to establish a communication line "to avoid incidents and miscommunication with the aim of safe passage for commercial vessels." As part of their deal, Washington agreed to release $12 billion in frozen funds to Iran and temporarily suspend sanctions on its oil exports through August 21. Vance clarified that Iranian assets had not yet been unfrozen and, if they were, would be used for purchasing US goods like soybeans, not funding terrorism.

The negotiations, which aim for a final document within a 60-day renewable deadline, have raised hopes for a lasting settlement and contributed to a decrease in oil prices. Diplomacy continues, with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian scheduled to travel to Pakistan following the talks in Switzerland.

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The developments come after mediators Pakistan and Qatar said the US and Iranian negotiators reached agreement on a "roadmap towards reaching a final deal within 60 days".