Iran Says Strait of Hormuz Will Remain Closed Until U.S. Meets Demands

Iran's foreign ministry said on Monday that the Strait of Hormuz will not be reopened until the United States fulfills a series of conditions, including ending its naval blockade of Iranian ports, paying compensation for war damage, lifting economic sanctions and releasing frozen Iranian assets. Spokesperson Esmail Baghaei warned that as long as the U.S. blockade continues, the strait cannot be considered a safe waterway.

The statement came after President Donald Trump suggested the negotiations were akin to a "board game" and indicated a willingness to let economic pressure on Iran increase. Tehran has also been discussing a temporary shipping corridor with Oman, but any reopening remains dependent on a U.S. agreement.

Baghaei also referenced a recent defence pact signed by Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan, describing it as a shift in regional perception of U.S. security guarantees. He said Iran does not view the pact as a threat, citing historic ties with the three countries.

The closure of the Hormuz Strait, a key conduit for about 20% of global oil shipments, has become a lasting impact of the five-month conflict between the United States and Iran, influencing energy prices ahead of upcoming U.S. elections.