Iran Claims Exclusive Control Over Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising US Tensions

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared that Iran holds exclusive rights to manage maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz under a preliminary agreement signed with former US President Donald Trump. He warned that attempts to bypass Iran's authority could lead to further confrontations like those seen recently. This statement contradicts the US position, which argues that the agreement does not grant Iran control and insists that ships avoid navigating the international waterway without Iranian approval.

The assertion of control by Tehran follows several days of escalating attacks between Iran and the US. The conflict began when Iran struck a ship attempting to cross the strait near the coast of Oman. Iran demands that vessels use a separate route along its coastline and has cautioned ships against using alternative passages. These clashes have alarmed ship owners and cast doubt on reopening the vital waterway, threatening the main achievement of Trump's initial deal and delaying progress on more contentious issues like Iran's nuclear program.

Negotiations planned to resume in Switzerland later this week have been canceled due to the ongoing hostilities, according to informed sources cited by The Wall Street Journal. Araghchi emphasized, "The full management and restoration of maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz is Iran's responsibility; no other country or entity has authority in this matter."

US Ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, responded firmly, stating the US will not tolerate further attacks on vessels. Speaking on Fox News, he warned that if the Iranian regime believes President Trump will stand by while Iran continues assaults on international shipping and US bases, "they are very mistaken," adding that recent US responses have been clear and forceful.

In recent days, Iran attacked two vessels, including a container ship and an oil tanker from Qatar. The US retaliated with strikes on Iranian communication sites, drones, and missile positions along the strait's coast. Subsequently, Iran launched attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain, further escalating regional tensions.