Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz Until US Meets Seven Demands

Iran has declared that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the United States meets seven specific demands, escalating tensions in one of the world’s most critical energy routes. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s top negotiator, stated that while Washington has submitted proposals through intermediaries, Tehran will not reopen the strait until its conditions, outlined in the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, are fulfilled. Though Iran has not publicly listed all seven demands, reports suggest they include lifting the US maritime blockade, releasing frozen Iranian assets, ending sanctions on oil exports, halting military operations against Iran, and withdrawing US forces from nearby regions.

Ghalibaf paired the diplomatic ultimatum with a warning of Iran’s military readiness, stating that Tehran would confront its opponents with 'new surprises.' He emphasized that Iran is neither intimidated nor excited by Washington’s proposals and is prepared to 'both fight and negotiate.' Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump rejected Iran’s proposal to reopen the strait last week, although Washington later responded through intermediaries.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated Tehran’s commitment to diplomacy but warned that Iran is better prepared for military confrontation if necessary. He told foreign diplomats that Iran hopes Washington will choose diplomacy but stressed readiness to defend itself. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy route, has disrupted maritime shipping for over seven months since US and Israeli strikes on Iran in February.

During peacetime, the strait facilitates roughly one-fifth of global oil and natural gas shipments. Iran maintains that the waterway will not fully reopen until Washington accepts its proposed conditions, highlighting the ongoing geopolitical standoff and its impact on global energy markets.