Iran puts Hormuz behind lock and key until US bends

Iran has firmly refused to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz or return to past negotiations with the United States until Washington meets Tehran's specific demands, according to Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. The Speaker confirmed that Iran delivered its conditions to the United States through intermediaries, insisting that Tehran's rights and commitments will not change until the Americans fulfill their side of the bargain.

This stance comes amid a heightened US-Iran conflict, with the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy conduit, becoming a key point of contention. Iran's central military command has warned that any renewed US military action against Tehran would lead to attacks on American bases and interests across the region, while also cautioning regional allies against supporting any US military operation against Iran.

Meanwhile, the United States has redirected 109 commercial vessels as part of its efforts to enforce a naval blockade on Iran, and President Donald Trump has issued warnings of significant consequences if Iran does not change its behavior, while potentially leaving room for talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian during the UN General Assembly.