Iran's parliamentary speaker and chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, stated that the Strait of Hormuz can only be reopened if the US meets all of Tehran's conditions. According to a report by state news agency IRNA, Ghalibaf emphasized that Iran's positions are clear and non-negotiable. He warned that if the US does not fulfil Tehran's conditions, there will be no return to the previous state of negotiations.
Ghalibaf's comments come after Mohsen Rezaee, head of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, signalled Iran's readiness to end the war with the US based on a framework agreement concluded in June. Rezaee named seven conditions for ending the war in an interview with Al Jazeera. These conditions include the US releasing frozen assets, ending the war on all fronts, and lifting its blockade of Iranian ports and ships.
Tehran is also demanding that Washington refrain from interfering in Iran's internal affairs. These points are in line with the June agreement, which aimed to pave the way for a permanent deal. Rezaee emphasized that the US must fulfil all conditions before further negotiations can follow. These talks are expected to address the future of Iran's nuclear programme.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway for global oil exports. Any disruption to shipping through the strait could have significant economic implications. Iran has previously threatened to close the strait in response to US sanctions. The US has imposed significant sanctions on Iran's energy sector, which has had a major impact on the country's economy.
Ghalibaf's comments suggest that Iran is unlikely to compromise on its demands. The country's leadership has consistently stated that it will not negotiate on key issues such as its nuclear programme and the US presence in the region. The US and Iran have been engaged in indirect talks aimed at reviving the 2015 nuclear deal, which was abandoned by the US in 2018.
The framework agreement concluded in June was seen as a positive step towards reducing tensions between the two countries. However, the agreement's implementation has been delayed due to disagreements over key issues. The US has expressed concerns about Iran's ballistic missile programme and its support for militant groups in the region.
The situation remains uncertain, with both sides appearing to harden their positions. The Iranian leadership has consistently stated that it will not back down from its demands, while the US has maintained that it will not compromise on key issues. The international community is watching closely, as any escalation of tensions between the two countries could have significant regional and global implications.
Key points
- Iran's parliamentary speaker says the Strait of Hormuz can only be reopened if the US fulfils Tehran's conditions.
- Iran is demanding that the US release frozen assets, end the war on all fronts, and lift its blockade of Iranian ports and ships.
- The US and Iran have been engaged in indirect talks aimed at reviving the 2015 nuclear deal, which was abandoned by the US in 2018.
