Iran: Hormuz Will Not Reopen Until Conditions Are Met, Shifts to "Fully Offensive" Posture

Odaily News – As the 60-day interim memorandum of understanding between the U.S. and Iran technically expires, Iran has announced that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until Washington meets the relevant conditions, and has stated that it has shifted to a "fully offensive" strategic posture. Iran's chief negotiator, Qalibaf, said that the U.S. must lift its blockade on Iranian ports and oil sanctions, release Iran's frozen assets, and completely cease military operations and threats on all fronts before the Strait of Hormuz can be reopened. Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi stated that Iran will continue fighting until its conditions are accepted before agreeing to a ceasefire, and asserted that "Iran has won both the war and diplomacy." Trump, meanwhile, said there are currently no negotiations or dialogues underway or planned between the U.S. and Iran, that the naval blockade remains fully in effect, and that the Strait of Hormuz is open and functioning normally, with all mines having been removed or detonated. At the same time, Iran is holding bilateral talks with Oman regarding the management of the Strait of Hormuz. According to Iranian media reports, the Iranian military is also investigating commercial shipping networks that provide logistical support to U.S. forces, and has warned that companies or ship management entities transporting supplies for U.S. military operations against Iran may face economic, legal, and retaliatory countermeasures.