Iran Says Strait of Hormuz Will Remain Closed Until US Changes Its Behaviour
Tehran demands an end to military threats, sanctions and the naval blockade, while Oman says talks on managing the strategic waterway remain constructive.
DUBAI, Aug 8: Iran has said the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the United States changes its approach towards Tehran, adding new conditions that could complicate ongoing discussions over the management of the strategically vital waterway.
Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council and a senior commander in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, outlined Tehran’s position in a statement carried by Iran’s state broadcaster.
According to the statement, Washington must end threats against Iran and bring a permanent conclusion to its military confrontation with Tehran and its allied armed groups in the region. Iran also called for the removal of the US naval blockade of its ports and the withdrawal of American forces from the surrounding region.
Tehran further demanded compensation for damage caused during the conflict, the lifting of US sanctions and the unconditional release of Iranian assets frozen abroad.
The United States had not immediately responded to the demands. Washington has been seeking an agreement on arrangements for the waterway before moving towards an end to the blockade.
Iran had earlier indicated that it was nearing an understanding with Oman on measures to manage the Strait of Hormuz and maintain maritime traffic through the strategic passage.
Oman, which has been mediating between the parties, said on Saturday that discussions were continuing in a “positive and constructive atmosphere.” Muscat also condemned attacks targeting vessels travelling through the strait.
The waterway, located between Iran and Oman, is a crucial route for global energy shipments, making any prolonged disruption a major concern for international trade and oil markets.
