Iran Says Strait of Hormuz Will Stay Closed Until US Meets Conditions

Iran has stated that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the United States meets seven conditions outlined in a June interim agreement. Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, Iran's parliament speaker, emphasized that the U.S. must abandon its one-sided demands and adhere to the terms of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. He noted that Iran has clearly communicated its stance and will not reopen the strait until all conditions are satisfied.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi suggested that the Strait of Hormuz could reopen within seven days if the U.S. accepts Tehran's proposed plan. Speaking to diplomats in Tehran, Araqchi warned that Iran is prepared to respond militarily if the U.S. escalates tensions. He reiterated that Iran's conditions for reopening the strait are tied to commitments the U.S. must accept.

Meanwhile, Iran's Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad resigned for personal reasons, with Hamid Bovard appointed as acting minister. Paknejad's resignation comes amid heightened pressure on Iran's economy due to U.S. sanctions and a naval blockade. The country's oil exports, a critical source of government revenue, have been severely impacted by these restrictions.

Iran has demanded that the U.S. lift sanctions on its oil sales and end the blockade as part of negotiations over reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The country's ability to export oil remains a key issue in the ongoing dispute with the U.S.