Iran's top security official stated Saturday that the Strait of Hormuz will not return to normal traffic until the United States "corrects its behavior," casting doubt on hopes for a full reopening of the critical waterway.
Supreme National Security Council Secretary Mohammad Baqer Zolqadr laid out sweeping demands for normalizing passage. These include a complete U.S. military withdrawal from the region, the lifting of naval blockades and sanctions against Iran, the release of frozen assets, compensation for war damages, and an end to attacks against Iran's allies in the Middle East. Zolqadr asserted that Iran's security council "will never back down, neither in war nor in negotiations."
Iranian officials also indicated a desire for permanent strategic control over the Strait and the authority to impose tolls of up to 7%. An Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps spokesperson emphasized that the reopening is contingent on Iran's conditions and is separate from ongoing negotiations with Oman.
These declarations come as a limited deal between Iran and Oman, brokered by President Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff, is reportedly nearing finalization. This temporary agreement would establish a shipping corridor managed by Iran and Oman, allowing passage without tolls or permissions. It is expected to be followed by a 60-day period leading to a permanent end to hostilities, with the U.S. pledging to lift its naval blockade upon signing.
President Trump had previously paused military strikes against Iran last weekend as diplomatic efforts appeared to gain momentum, but has warned that airstrikes would resume if negotiations fail.
Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates condemned what it described as a "hostile Iranian attack" after a vessel belonging to Abu Dhabi's National Oil Company was struck by a missile while transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that targeting commercial shipping and using the Strait for economic coercion constitutes "an act of piracy" and a direct threat to regional stability, urging Iran to cease "unprovoked attacks" and commit to a "complete and unconditional" reopening of the Strait.
With threats of attacks remaining, maritime traffic through the Strait has been reduced to less than 10% of its pre-conflict levels, as many ships are avoiding the passage.