Kathmandu— The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated on Saturday that the Strait of Hormuz will only reopen once the United States fully accepts a set of Iranian conditions, despite ongoing discussions between Tehran and Oman regarding a new shipping protocol for the vital waterway.

Negotiations with Oman and US Conditions

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi noted that Iran and Oman are "very close" to reaching an agreement on a new arrangement for shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. However, Araghchi emphasized that additional requirements, including compensation from the United States to Iran, must be met before the waterway can be reopened.

IRGC spokesperson Sardar Mohebi clarified that the reopening of the strait depends on "specific mechanisms and conditions" that are separate from the current negotiations being conducted with Oman. Mohebi stated that the process is conditional on the US fully accepting Iran's terms and ceasing interference in regional negotiations.

Demands for Regional Stability

Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, has outlined a series of requirements for the restoration of transit. These include an end to US threats against Iran, the cessation of military action against Iran and its regional allies, and the withdrawal of naval and air forces involved in the blockade.

Furthermore, Iran is seeking compensation for damages caused during the conflict, the lifting of sanctions, and the unfreezing of Iranian assets.

Presidential Stance on Diplomacy

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian remarked that the current situation represents the "best time to reach an agreement," while asserting that the government will not compromise on the rights of the Iranian people. Pezeshkian noted that the administration's primary reliance remains on domestic capabilities and the citizenry.

In recent comments, Pezeshkian accused Israel and the United States of attempting to turn Persian Gulf states against Tehran by exploiting the country's internal challenges amidst the ongoing West Asia conflict.

The restoration of commercial maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz remains a primary point of contention as military conflicts in the region continue.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.