Iran will never relinquish control over the Strait of Hormuz, Parliament Speaker and top negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf declared Tuesday, describing the waterway as the country's most valuable strategic asset.
The statement underscores Tehran's refusal to cede administrative authority over the critical shipping lane, even as diplomatic channels remain open.
The remarks come roughly a day after the conclusion of technical talks between the United States and Iran aimed at securing a shipping deal for the strait.
While Washington and Tehran have engaged in discussions to normalize transit and reduce insurance costs for commercial vessels, Qalibaf's comments signal that any agreement will likely fall short of internationalizing the corridor's governance.
For traders, this reinforces the persistent geopolitical risk premium embedded in energy prices.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point for global energy flows, with approximately one-fifth of the world's oil passing through the narrow passage.