Strait of Hormuz to Remain Closed Until Iran's Conditions Are Met: Ghalibaf

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, has stated that the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz will not return to its previous status until the United States meets the conditions set by Iran. He made these remarks during a speech at the Iranian Parliament on Sunday (September 20).

Ghalibaf noted that Iran's position and conditions have been conveyed to the United States through intermediaries. The situation regarding the Strait of Hormuz will not revert to the status quo until Iran's conditions are met, its legitimate rights are recognized, and the commitments made by the United States are fulfilled.

At the same time, he ruled out the possibility of negotiations with the United States returning to their previous stage. According to Ghalibaf, Iran will maintain its current stance until the United States honors its commitments.

He further stated that there is no longer any room for imposing unilateral decisions or resolving issues through deception. He emphasized that the situation could only change if the conditions set by Iran are fulfilled.

Tensions between the United States and Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz have persisted for several months. Under normal circumstances, a significant portion of the world's oil and natural gas trade is transported through this crucial waterway. Although discussions involving the United States, Iran, Oman, and other relevant parties have taken place in recent months regarding the future management of the strait and vessel traffic, no permanent solution has been reached.

Previously, a memorandum of understanding had been reached between the United States and Iran, but tensions and military confrontations subsequently resurfaced. Differences of opinion also persist regarding the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran maintains that the path to negotiations could reopen if the United States fulfills the commitments made in the previous agreement and accepts Tehran's demands.

In recent times, Iran has permitted limited vessel movement through the Strait of Hormuz. In August, several Iraqi oil tankers were granted special permission to pass through the strait.