Iran Insists US Must Meet Conditions to Resume Shipping Through Strait of Hormuz

US President Donald Trump announced plans to declare the Strait of Hormuz as American territory, prompting strong Iranian responses. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Qaribabadi stated on social media that the Strait is under Iran's control and will only be opened or closed by Iran. He criticized Trump, saying the Strait cannot be controlled by tweets, aircraft carriers, orders, or election speeches, and warned that Iran will continue enforcing its blockade unless the US accepts defeat and abandons its fantasies.

Earlier, Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani emphasized that the US must meet specific conditions to allow the resumption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Additionally, the UAE's national oil company reported that one of its vessels was attacked while crossing the Strait, though no casualties were reported. These developments highlight escalating tensions over control and navigation rights in this strategically critical waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital maritime chokepoint for global oil shipments, and the recent statements and incidents underscore the ongoing geopolitical struggle between the US and Iran in the region. The situation remains volatile, with potential implications for international shipping and regional security.