Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has declared that Tehran will never relinquish control over the Strait of Hormuz, describing the waterway as the country's most valuable strategic asset.
The statement comes shortly after reports emerged that the United States and Iran have reached a deal to halt hostilities and reopen the critical shipping corridor.
Qalibaf, who also serves as a top negotiator for Iran, emphasized that the nation will not allow US interference in the strait.
Qalibaf, who also serves as a top negotiator for Iran, emphasized that the nation will not allow US interference in the strait.
He characterized the recent US-Israeli military campaign as a failure, reinforcing Tehran's position that sovereignty over the chokepoint is non-negotiable.
This rhetoric underscores the political sensitivity surrounding the waterway, even as operational access appears to be returning.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a vital artery for global energy flows, handling a significant portion of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas trade.