In a recent address, Iran’s parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf emphasized that the strategic Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the United States meets several demands, particularly the removal of a naval blockade.
Ghalibaf clarified, “The Strait of Hormuz will not be opened until the American commitments stipulated in the memorandum of understanding are implemented.” Among the key demands are the lifting of oil sanctions and the unfreezing of Iran’s assets abroad, which were part of a previously agreed-upon truce that has since collapsed.
The backdrop to this situation includes a recent conflict that erupted on February 28 after U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran, followed by ongoing sporadic clashes, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz. Since the onset of the conflict, Iran has maintained control over this critical global energy passage, requiring vessels to seek permission and pay transit fees, a practice met with opposition from Washington and several neighboring countries.
Discussions between Iran and Oman regarding navigation through the strait have been ongoing, with both nations reportedly aligning on geographical coordinates for the route. On Monday, Iranian officials stated that talks were progressing and that a joint statement was being formulated.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has raised tensions by threatening military action against Oman should it impede a U.S.-Iran deal concerning Hormuz. Ghalibaf, in his speech, affirmed Iran’s readiness to respond decisively to U.S. actions, indicating a preparedness to administer significant consequences tied to the ongoing conflict.
