New York: Iran has set clear conditions for the US to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, putting the issue of this vital waterway at the forefront of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi met with US special envoy Steve Wittkoff on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. According to Iranian state media, Tehran’s position on reopening the Strait of Hormuz was conveyed to the US representative during the meeting. Iran has set the immediate lifting of the naval blockade, the release of frozen Iranian assets and an end to the ongoing war on various fronts as key conditions.
The development comes at a time when Washington and Tehran are seeking diplomatic channels to ease months of tension. A day earlier, a senior Iranian official told Reuters that Iran could reopen the Strait of Hormuz within a week if the United States eased military pressure and lifted its blockade of Iranian ports. Tehran had conveyed its proposed plan to the United States through mediators on September 16.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital route for global energy trade. Before the war, about 20 percent of the world’s oil supply passed through the route. Therefore, the restoration of normal shipping traffic through the strait could have a direct impact on global oil and fuel markets. Oil prices have also fallen in recent days following reports of diplomatic progress on Hormuz.
However, there are still significant differences between Iran’s terms and the US position. Iran has linked the opening of the strait to a broader ceasefire and US measures, while Washington has made various demands for talks and an end to the war. US President Donald Trump has also described the talks between US and Iranian officials at the United Nations as useful, while further contacts are likely.
Analytically, the restoration of the Strait of Hormuz is not only a matter of disagreement between Iran and the US but also important for global energy and trade. If both sides agree on terms at some stage, improved maritime traffic could reduce pressure on the oil, fuel and shipping markets. However, no final agreement or permanent restoration has been announced at this time.
We welcome your contributions to The Pakistan Observer. Submit your blogs, opinion pieces, press releases and news features to our editorial team.
Please send your submissions to our News Desk or Editorial team. We look forward to hearing from writers, journalists and contributors.
