Kathmandu— Iran’s Foreign Ministry announced Monday that the strategic Strait of Hormuz will not be reopened to maritime traffic until the United States ends what it describes as a naval blockade, citing military aggression by both the US and Israel as justification for the closure. Spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stated the reopening is contingent on conditions imposed by American and Israeli authorities, while Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi confirmed no direct negotiations with Washington are currently underway. The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea, serving as a critical transit point for global energy supplies.

Conditions for Reopening

Baghaei emphasized that “as long as the US naval blockade continues, the necessary conditions for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz do not exist.” He called on Washington to cease what he termed “destructive actions” and allow for negotiations regarding next steps. Araghchi echoed this sentiment, stating that talks with the United States will not resume until the US addresses violations of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and amends previous breaches.

Bilateral Talks with Oman

Iran is currently finalizing technical discussions with Oman concerning a revised maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz. However, officials were quick to clarify that reaching an agreement with Muscat does not guarantee the waterway will be opened for general traffic. Araghchi noted that “this agreement may be reached, but the opening of the Strait of Hormuz is subject to a series of conditions.” Baghaei further specified that dialogue with Oman remains strictly bilateral.

Strategic Importance of the Strait

The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial chokepoint for global energy markets, facilitating the transport of crude oil and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) from Gulf exporters to destinations worldwide. Its closure would significantly disrupt international trade and potentially lead to increased energy prices.

Negotiations between Iran and the United States remain stalled, with both sides maintaining firm conditions for potential dialogue and a resolution regarding the Strait of Hormuz.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.