Iran vows to control Hormuz as Swiss talks conclude

Iran has declared its firm intention to retain control over the vital Strait of Hormuz, a central point of contention in the ongoing Middle East war talks with Washington that recently concluded in Switzerland. Vice President JD Vance described the negotiations as a "very good foundation" for a final deal to end the conflict, noting the suspension of sanctions on Iranian oil.

Despite an initial agreement between Washington and Tehran, significant issues such as Iran's nuclear program and the administration of Hormuz, a critical global oil supply route, remain unsettled. Technical discussions following the higher-level talks have ended, with plans to form working groups focused on nuclear matters and sanctions, according to Iranian state media.

While US President Donald Trump has demanded the unconditional reopening of Hormuz to maritime traffic, Iran has strongly resisted. "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," stated Iran's chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. The Strait had briefly reopened after an agreement but was closed again by Tehran in response to Israeli attacks in Lebanon.

As part of the broader agreement, Washington has agreed to release $12 billion in frozen Iranian funds and temporarily lift sanctions on Iranian oil exports until August 21. Vice President Vance clarified that Iranian assets have not yet been unfrozen and would be used for purchasing U.S. goods like soybeans, not for funding terrorism. Iran has faced asset freezes and sanctions since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

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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.