TEHRAN — Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) says the Strait of Hormuz will reopen only after the United States fully accepts Tehran's conditions, casting doubt on expectations that negotiations with Oman alone could quickly restore shipping through one of the world's most critical energy corridors.
IRGC spokesperson Hossein Mohebbi said reopening the strategic waterway is not dependent on ongoing talks with Oman, but instead hinges on Washington meeting Iran's demands. The remarks came after U.S. officials expressed optimism that negotiations could soon produce an agreement on commercial shipping through the strait.
Iran says discussions with Oman have made progress in developing a framework for future navigation arrangements, but officials insist that any final reopening also requires broader political concessions from the United States, including addressing issues linked to sanctions, military pressure and security guarantees.
The Strait of Hormuz, which carries a significant share of the world's seaborne oil and liquefied natural gas exports, has remained at the center of months of confrontation between Iran and the United States, disrupting global energy markets and shipping. Any prolonged closure or delay in reopening could continue to affect oil prices and international trade.
Despite the latest remarks, diplomatic efforts are continuing, with Oman acting as the principal mediator between Tehran and Washington. Neither the White House nor the U.S. State Department immediately responded publicly to the IRGC's latest conditions.
Why It Matters
The IRGC's statement signals that a breakthrough on the Strait of Hormuz remains uncertain despite ongoing diplomacy. Because roughly one-fifth of global seaborne oil passes through the waterway, any delay in reopening could prolong volatility in energy markets and complicate efforts to reduce tensions between Iran and the United States.
By Mashood Siddiqi | SCN NEWS