Kathmandu— Iran’s president has stated that the world recognizes Iran as victorious in its conflict with the United States, occurring against a backdrop of escalating tensions and disruptions to vital shipping lanes six months after hostilities began. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil supplies, is prompting France and Saudi Arabia to explore alternative routes for trade and energy transport. Simultaneously, remarks from the U.S. Ambassador to Turkey have seemingly contradicted official American policy regarding the Golan Heights, adding another layer of complexity to the volatile Middle Eastern landscape.

Iranian President Declares Victory

President Masoud Pezeshkian claimed Friday that the war with the U.S. should end, asserting the world has already acknowledged Iran’s success. Iranian state media reported Pezeshkian attributes this victory to Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz and its resistance to U.S. demands. “The entire world approved our victory and the U.S. is hated,” he said according to IRNA news agency, framing the situation as a clear win for Iranian policy.

Economic Warfare and Countermeasures

These declarations come despite ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to cripple Iran’s economy through sanctions. The U.S. has promised an “economic D-Day” aimed at forcing Iran to abandon its nuclear program and reopen the Strait of Hormuz to oil tankers. However, Iran views its ability to maintain control over the waterway—despite economic pressure—as a key component of its perceived victory.

Golan Heights Dispute Rekindled

U.S. Ambassador to Turkey and special envoy for Syria, Tom Barrack, sparked controversy Friday by stating that Israel “still” occupies the Golan Heights in violation of U.N. resolutions. His comments, made during an interview with entrepreneur Mario Nawfal, directly contradict President Trump’s 2019 proclamation recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the territory—a move that reversed decades of U.S. policy and remains largely unsupported internationally. Israel captured the Golan Heights from Syria in 1967 and annexed it in 1981, a move not recognized by the United Nations.

Bypassing the Strait of Hormuz

With the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed, France and Saudi Arabia are actively discussing alternative routes for trade. During an upcoming visit to Paris, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is expected to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron to explore options including increased use of Omani ports, expansion of pipelines within Saudi Arabia, and development of new rail links. A joint task force on energy and logistics connections between the Middle East and Europe will convene Monday to identify strategic projects and secure financing for these initiatives.

The visit by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman marks his first international trip since November 2025, signaling a concerted effort to address the logistical challenges posed by the ongoing conflict and find solutions to maintain vital trade routes.

(With inputs from AP)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.