As tensions escalate between the United States and Iran over control of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has stated it will maintain a blockade of the strait as long as U.S. hostilities continue.
On July 21, Al Jazeera reported, citing a military source from Iran's semi-official Fars news agency, that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed as long as aggressive actions from the U.S. persist.
The source indicated that Iran will not grant permission to any vessels attempting to pass through the strait. "The Strait of Hormuz is fully controlled by the Iranian military," the source emphasized, adding that decisions regarding reopening the strait or continuing navigation restrictions will be made solely based on security considerations and national interests. He further stated, "There will be no change in the current situation as long as U.S. threats and hostile actions continue."
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to find a resolution are ongoing. Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni, who arrived in Pakistan the previous day, is set to meet with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir to discuss a U.S.-Iran tension reduction plan facilitated by Pakistan and Qatar. Momeni is also expected to convey a message from Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi.
Additionally, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun is scheduled to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump in Washington to discuss the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon and support for the Lebanese military. The cessation of Israeli hostilities against Lebanon is included in a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the U.S. and Iran, and Lebanon and Israel announced an agreement last month regarding the withdrawal of Israeli forces and the disarmament of Hezbollah. However, Israeli troops remain stationed in some areas, leaving tensions unresolved.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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