Iran negotiator: Hormuz Strait to remain closed until US meets demands

Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, declared on Tuesday that the strategic Strait of Hormuz will not reopen until the United States fulfills Tehran's demands. These demands include the removal of a naval blockade and the lifting of oil sanctions, as well as unfreezing Iran's foreign assets.

Ghalibaf specified that these conditions were part of an Iran-US truce agreed upon in June, which subsequently collapsed. He asserted that the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy conduit, would remain closed until these "American commitments" are implemented.

The conflict between Iran and the US, triggered by US-Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28, has led to regional tensions. While diplomatic efforts have eased intense bombardments since April 8, sporadic clashes continue, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has maintained control over the vital waterway since the war began, requiring vessels to obtain permission and pay transit fees, a policy opposed by Washington and several regional nations.

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I want to state clearly that the Strait of Hormuz will not be opened until the American commitments stipulated in the memorandum of understanding… are implemented.