Iran Sets Conditions for US Before Reopening Strait of Hormuz

Iran’s head of national security, Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, has issued a list of demands that must be fulfilled by the United States before Iran will agree to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Zolghadr, who also serves as secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, published the demands via state media.

The list of demands includes the lifting of the US naval blockade, the withdrawal of military forces, and a permanent end to the conflict. Zolghadr also urged the US to compensate Iran for losses incurred during the conflict and to unfreeze Iranian assets.

“These are the demands of the Iranian people, which they have voiced loudly during 160 days of steadfast presence in the field and on the streets,” Zolghadr stated. He further asserted that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed unless the US changed its behaviour. “As long as America does not correct its behaviour, the Strait of Hormuz will not be reopened,” he said.

On Saturday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated that Iran was very close to reaching an agreement with Oman regarding the management of the Strait of Hormuz. However, he cautioned that the reopening of the strait depended on other conditions, including US steps to remedy violations of a memorandum of understanding agreed upon by both nations in June. Oman’s Foreign Ministry described the negotiations as positive and constructive. On Friday, state broadcaster IRIB reported that Iranian parliamentarians had largely agreed to a proposed framework with Oman, pending final approval.