**Hormuz to Remain Closed Unless US Accepts Iran's Conditions, Says Iranian Official**
The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime corridor for global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, will remain closed until the United States alters its approach and agrees to specific conditions set by Iran, according to Mohsen Rezaei, the newly appointed secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council. Rezaei made these statements on Tuesday, indicating that any potential agreements concerning the waterway will not automatically lead to the resumption of shipping activities.
Rezaei emphasized that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz is contingent upon the U.S. changing its behavior and accepting Iran's demands. These conditions include an end to ongoing military conflicts, the release of Iran's frozen assets, and a cessation of hostilities in regions such as Lebanon and Gaza. He noted that any discussions or agreements made between Iran and Oman regarding a transit route through the strait would be independent of the decision to reopen the waterway.
The remarks from Rezaei, who was appointed to his position on Sunday, highlight the complex geopolitical dynamics surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. This narrow passage is vital for global energy supplies, with approximately 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas passing through it prior to the escalation of the current conflict.
Iran's conditions have reportedly been communicated to the U.S. through intermediaries. Mohammad Mokhber, an adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, reiterated on the same day that Iran's stance on the conflict would persist until its conditions are met, further solidifying the nation's position regarding the strait's closure.
The situation has led to increased volatility in oil markets, with futures prices rising amid growing uncertainty about the future of the waterway. The strait's closure poses significant implications for global energy supplies, raising concerns among traders and analysts.
In the backdrop of these developments, U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly demanded compensation from Iran for damages incurred over several decades due to conflicts and attacks. He characterized Iran as "devious negotiators" and indicated that the U.S. would seek financial reparations for the impact of Iran's actions over the past 50 years.
Efforts to mediate the situation have involved Pakistan and Qatar, with Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif expressing optimism that the two sides might be nearing an agreement. However, the ongoing conflict continues to disrupt maritime operations in the region. On Tuesday, reports emerged of a suspected attack by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi forces on a cargo vessel in the Bab el Mandeb Strait, resulting in the deaths of four crew members. Additionally, a container ship was reportedly hit by a missile off the coast of Pakistan, which is suspected to be linked to U.S. military actions.
These incidents have heightened concerns regarding maritime security in the Gulf of Oman, the Red Sea, and adjacent waterways, underscoring the precarious nature of the current geopolitical landscape.
As the situation evolves, the international community remains watchful, with the potential for further developments that could impact both regional stability and global energy markets. The U.S. has yet to respond officially to the latest statements from Iranian officials, leaving many questions unanswered regarding the future of the Strait of Hormuz and the broader implications for international relations in the region.