CAIRO, April 19: Iran has reaffirmed its decision to restrict shipping through the Strait of Hormuz as long as the United States continues its blockade of Iranian ports, complicating efforts to extend a fragile ceasefire set to expire soon.
The parallel blockades have created a major hurdle for Pakistan-led mediation, raising doubts about whether the two-week truce can be prolonged.
Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf, who is also the country’s chief negotiator, stated that Iran would not allow others to freely pass through the strait while it remains restricted itself.
He criticised the US blockade as misguided but emphasized Iran’s willingness to pursue diplomacy, even though key disagreements remain unresolved.
Although Iran initially announced reopening the strait after a temporary truce involving Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, it reversed course after US President Donald Trump insisted the blockade would remain until Tehran agrees to US terms.
This escalation has heightened tensions in the Persian Gulf, where shipping activity has slowed significantly. Vessels have become increasingly cautious after incidents involving gunfire on commercial ships, including India-linked vessels forced to retreat mid-transit.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital global energy corridor, handling roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.
Its disruption threatens to deepen the global energy crisis and heightens the risk of renewed conflict as the war enters its eighth week.
Iran views control over the strait as a powerful strategic tool capable of pressuring global markets and the United States, while Washington’s blockade aims to weaken Iran’s already strained economy by limiting its revenue streams.
Despite the ceasefire largely holding, tensions remain high. Iran has confirmed receiving new proposals from the US, and Pakistani mediators are working to arrange another round of direct negotiations. However, the standoff at sea continues to undermine confidence and stability.
The conflict has already caused significant casualties, with thousands killed across Iran, Lebanon, Israel, and Gulf states.
Recent maritime incidents, including attacks by Iran’s Revolutionary Guard on tankers and container vessels, have further reduced hopes of normal shipping resuming.
Iranian officials, including Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh, have accused the US of endangering the global economy and jeopardizing the ceasefire.
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council has labeled the US blockade a violation of the truce and vowed to maintain strict control over maritime traffic, including designated routes, transit fees, and permits, until the conflict fully ends. (AP)
