Iran links Hormuz reopening to U.S. demands

TEHRAN, Iran (MNTV) — Iran will not reopen the Strait of Hormuz until the United States fulfills commitments outlined in a memorandum of understanding, including lifting a naval blockade and easing economic restrictions, Iran’s chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf said.

Qalibaf said Tehran wants the removal of restrictions on maritime activity, an end to oil sanctions and the release of Iranian assets held overseas before access through the strategic waterway can resume.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical shipping route for global energy supplies, and continued disruption has heightened concern over regional trade, oil exports and broader Middle East security.

Qalibaf, who led Iran’s talks with Washington aimed at ending the Middle East conflict, is due to travel to Iraq on Wednesday with a senior parliamentary delegation, Iranian media reported.

The delegation is expected to discuss regional developments, strengthen cooperation between Tehran and Baghdad and consider measures intended to support stability and security, according to Fars news agency.

The visit comes as Iraq faces pressure from the United States to disarm Iran-aligned armed groups, which Baghdad has reportedly been asked to disband by Sept. 30, when the U.S.-led anti-Daesh coalition’s mission is scheduled to end.

Separately, Iran’s ambassador to Kuwait said he met four Iranian nationals who have been detained in Kuwait for three months, following Iranian allegations that Kuwaiti authorities had withheld information about their situation.