Iran’s newly appointed security chief has reaffirmed that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the United States meets specific demands. Mohsen Rezaei conveyed Iran’s position to China’s ambassador in Tehran, stating that Washington must cease military operations, lift its naval blockade on Iranian ports, release frozen Iranian assets, and support a region-wide ceasefire affecting Gaza and Lebanon. The announcement came as Pakistan’s interior minister visited the Iranian capital for discussions on strengthening bilateral relations.
Pakistan and Qatar are actively mediating efforts to resolve the escalating conflict between the US and Iran. Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesman indicated that talks between Iran and Oman regarding shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz have progressed significantly. However, Iran clarified that any bilateral agreement with Oman would not affect the broader reopening of the waterway, maintaining its stance on comprehensive conditions being met first.
Military confrontations continued on Tuesday as fighting intensified in multiple regions. A US Navy helicopter disabled a cargo vessel it accused of violating the American blockade, while suspected Houthi forces killed four crew members in the Red Sea. The ongoing conflict, which began in late February, has resulted in thousands of casualties across Iran, Lebanon, and other affected areas, with no immediate resolution in sight despite President Trump’s previous assertions about a forthcoming deal.
Originally reported by Aljazeera →
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