Iran sets strict conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz

Tensions regarding the Strait of Hormuz have intensified following a declaration by Mohammad Bagher Zolqadr, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, who stated that the waterway will remain closed until the United States changes its policy. Iran is demanding an end to hostilities, the lifting of all sanctions and naval blockades, the withdrawal of U.S. forces from the region, the release of frozen assets, and full reparations for damages sustained during the conflict which began on February 28, 2026. This announcement follows reports of decreased maritime traffic, with data from Kpler showing only 33 commercial vessels passed through the strait during the second week of August, compared to 50 in the previous week.

While U.S. officials and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi previously signaled progress in negotiations mediated by Oman, the latest statements from Iranian leadership have cast doubt on these efforts. Reports suggest that Tehran may be deliberately delaying a resolution to influence the upcoming U.S. elections, while the Iranian parliament is separately considering legislation that would impose fines of up to 20% on the cargo value of ships from countries deemed hostile, specifically mentioning the U.S. and Israel. Current status remains a deadlock, as the Iranian Revolutionary Guard insists that maritime transit is conditional solely upon the acceptance of their specific demands by Washington.