Iran Maintains Closure of Strait of Hormuz Amid U.S. Blockade
Iran has announced that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the United States lifts its blockade of Iranian ports. This decision comes amidst ongoing negotiations between Iran and the U.S., which have yet to reach a final peace agreement. The closure of the strait, a critical maritime trade route, has significant implications for global oil and liquefied natural gas transit. Iran's parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, indicated that while there has been progress in talks, substantial gaps remain. The situation follows a temporary ceasefire that allowed limited transit through the strait, which was reversed after President Trump insisted on maintaining the blockade. Iran's Revolutionary Guards have warned that any unauthorized passage through the strait will be considered hostile, and offending vessels will be targeted. 
