Iran Vows to Keep Strait of Hormuz Closed Amid New Navigation Rules

Iran is maintaining its stance on keeping the Strait of Hormuz closed, despite reaching an understanding with Oman on new navigation arrangements. This comes as diplomatic efforts continue to de-escalate tensions between Tehran and Washington.

A source cited by Iran's Tasnim news agency stated that the agreement with Muscat outlines new entry and exit routes for the strait, with passage to be governed by Iranian regulations. The southern route, which the U.S. had pushed to keep open, will reportedly be closed. The source emphasized that this understanding does not signify the opening of the strait and that Iran has communicated seven conditions to Washington through intermediaries for its potential opening.

Concurrently, an Iranian commercial vessel was attacked off the southern coast of Iran, resulting in one death and three injuries, according to official Iranian media. The UK Maritime Trade Operations reported that another ship experienced an impact from an "unknown projectile" while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, with no immediate attribution of responsibility or details on damage.

These developments occur amidst ongoing regional and international mediation efforts and what the article refers to as the "American-Israeli war on Iran." U.S. President Donald Trump recently stated the conflict would end "very soon," reiterated that Washington will not permit Tehran to acquire nuclear weapons, and asserted U.S. control over the Strait of Hormuz.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif is scheduled to meet with Gulf Cooperation Council foreign ministers on Monday.