Iran Sets Conditions for Reopening Strait of Hormuz
Iran has outlined conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, linking renewed access to changes in U.S. policy as regional tensions continue to disrupt shipping and energy markets.
Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said Washington would need to lift its naval blockade and sanctions, withdraw military forces from the region, release frozen Iranian assets, and pay war reparations. The council also called for an end to U.S. attacks on Iranian allies and threats against Iran. CNBC said it had not independently verified the reported demands, while the White House had not immediately commented.
The demands emerged near the end of a 60-day negotiating period established under a June interim agreement. That framework anticipated discussions on sanctions relief, compensation, and frozen assets as part of a final settlement.
Security concerns intensified after ADNOC reported that one of its vessels was struck by a missile while crossing the strait. The company said no one was injured and the situation was controlled. The United Arab Emirates condemned the attack.
Iran and Oman are separately discussing a navigation arrangement that could establish designated transit routes. Oman described the talks as positive and constructive, while also condemning attacks on vessels. U.S. Vice President JD Vance said possible measures include traffic controls, demining, and Iranian assurances against attacks on commercial shipping.
The prolonged disruption has reduced vessel traffic and contributed to higher fuel prices, inflation concerns, and uncertainty about global oil supplies. Although Trump administration officials had suggested an agreement was imminent, none had been announced by Saturday.
Iranian state media also published a draft plan that would bar U.S. and Israeli ships and potentially restrict vessels from other countries until compensation is paid. With negotiations unresolved and attacks continuing, the strait remains a central point of military, diplomatic, and economic pressure.