Iran Declares No Intent to Reopen Strait of Hormuz Without US Concessions

Senior officials from Iran's Revolutionary Guard and the regime have announced that despite progress in talks with Oman regarding navigation and control of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has no intention of allowing international traffic to resume through this critical waterway until the United States fully concedes to Iranian demands. A senior Revolutionary Guard official stated, "The reopening of Hormuz is solely Iran's decision, independent of the Oman talks, and will only occur when the US fully accepts Iran's conditions." These conditions include a US withdrawal from the region, lifting of the naval blockade, and non-interference in Hormuz's management. Iranian Foreign Ministry representatives echoed this stance, emphasizing that while the deal with Oman is nearing completion, it does not equate to reopening the strait. Full reopening depends on the US honoring previous understandings with Iran. This position directly contradicts claims by former US President Donald Trump and other regional actors, who suggested imminent reopening. The ongoing negotiations focus on regulating shipping routes in preparation for a future reopening, but the broader political and military demands remain unmet.