Iran links Strait of Hormuz reopening to Gaza conflict, US demands

Iran has declared that the Strait of Hormuz will not be reopened unless the United States alters its approach and accepts Tehran's demands. These conditions encompass an end to the war against Iran, the release of frozen Iranian financial assets, and a cessation of hostilities in Gaza and Lebanon.

Major General Mohsen Rezaei, representing Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and serving as secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, communicated these terms to Cong Peiwu, China's ambassador to Tehran. Rezaei emphasized that Washington must end its conflict with Iran and unblock its assets, while also calling for a halt to regional wars, particularly in Gaza and Lebanon.

Rezaei indicated that Tehran has conveyed additional conditions to Washington through intermediaries. His statements further clarify Tehran's position on negotiations concerning the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. He suggested that any potential agreement between Tehran and Oman regarding maritime traffic through the strait should be considered separate from the broader issue of reopening the strait itself.

These comments follow a statement from Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, who asserted on Monday that Iran views the closure of the strait as a justifiable response to its use in attacks against the country. Baghaei stated, "The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz depends on Iran's situation and conditions," adding that "as long as the war continues, we will not allow passage through the strait."

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The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz depends on Iran's situation and conditions. . . . as long as the war continues, we will not allow passage through the strait.