Washington/Tehran: The world’s most important oil route could remain closed for up to six months. US officials say it may take that long to clear mines from the Strait of Hormuz. At the same time, Iran says reopening the waterway is “impossible” right now, making the standoff with Washington even worse.
The narrow strait is at the center of the conflict, carrying about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. President Trump says the strait will only reopen if Iran dismantles its nuclear program, gives up highly-enriched uranium, and removes shipping restrictions. He has warned of wider military action if Iran does not agree, but he recently extended the ceasefire with no set end date.
Iran says it will not move forward with peace talks unless the US ends its naval blockade, which is hurting Iran’s oil-driven economy. On Wednesday, Iran’s parliamentary speaker and lead negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, said reopening the strait was “impossible.” He also accused the US and Israel of “flagrant” ceasefire violations by keeping the blockade in place.
“Their aims have not succeeded through force, nor will they by coercion,” Ghalibaf said, hardening Tehran’s stance.
Neither side is willing to compromise, so the Strait of Hormuz remains a symbol of the ongoing deadlock. This has left global energy markets uncertain, and diplomatic efforts have not made progress.