Iran negotiator says Hormuz will be Tehran administered

Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, declared that the Strait of Hormuz will be administered by Tehran, asserting that the waterway "will never return to its pre-war conditions." This statement follows talks in Switzerland aimed at de-escalating the conflict in the Middle East.

“

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.

According to state media, Ghalibaf described the negotiations as yielding "good achievements," particularly concerning the Strait, discussions on Lebanon, oil waivers, and the release of frozen assets. "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," he said.

As part of the agreements reached, the United States has temporarily suspended sanctions on Iranian oil. This move came after Vice President JD Vance indicated that Tehran would permit UN nuclear inspectors to return to the country. The deal also includes provisions for Iran to receive some form of sanctions relief and the unfreezing of assets.

“

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.

Despite these developments, Ghalibaf cautioned that "we believe we are still at the beginning of this work and must continue our efforts." The Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping lane, was closed by Iran at the outset of the war but reopened last week following an agreement between Washington and Tehran. However, Iran announced its closure again on Saturday in response to Israeli attacks in Lebanon. Mediators from Qatar and Pakistan reported that Tehran and Washington have since established a communication line to prevent incidents and miscommunication, ensuring safe passage for commercial vessels.

“

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