Iran issues demands for reopening of Hormuz

Iran has outlined conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, including compensation for war damages, which could hinder efforts to reopen the vital waterway. The Middle East nation has imposed a blockade of the strait since the US and Israel attacked it in late February. Iran now seeks to charge tolls for ships attempting to bypass its preferred route, leading to the collapse of a ceasefire in April.

Mediators have urged both sides to return to the terms of a June memorandum. Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said discussions with Oman over transit and management were nearing completion, but the reopening is contingent on other conditions and compensation for the June agreement violation. Security chief Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr listed demands, including an end to war and aggression against Iran and its allies, lifting of the US naval blockade, ending sanctions, releasing frozen assets, and compensation for wartime damage.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards also said the reopening has nothing to do with ongoing negotiations between Iran and Oman. Meanwhile, the UAE condemned a hostile Iranian attack on a tanker in the strait, and the UK reported another ship being hit by a projectile, causing a fire. Iran has targeted several vessels, with the UAE putting the number at 15.

Oman condemned the attacks but urged against actions jeopardizing negotiations. The previous Iran-US deal aimed to serve as a starting point for negotiations on a permanent settlement, with Iran and Oman to discuss future arrangements for the strait in line with international law. Turkey's foreign minister expects Egypt to join a joint defense agreement with Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan, viewed as a natural partner on regional issues. A drone attack on Egyptian territory marked the first such incident since the Iran war began.