Iran has declared it will not resume talks with the United States as it insisted that the Strait of Hormuz will remain under its control, with Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi stating that the passage will only be opened or closed at Iran’s command, reports BritPanorama.
Despite calls for negotiation, Gharibabadi accused the US of refusing to accept defeat, asserting that Iran will continue its blockade as long as this stance persists.
On the 14th of August, only two vessels passed through the strait, with no crude oil shipments reported, in stark contrast to the pre-war traffic of over 130 vessels daily, according to ship-tracking analysis from Kpler.
Prior to this, President Donald Trump indicated plans to declare the Strait of Hormuz a US territory and urged Americans to tolerate higher fuel prices as the conflict, ongoing since late February, presents significant challenges.
In a bid to secure the release of three Iranian pilots allegedly detained by Qatar, Iran’s Armed Forces General Staff reached out to the International Committee of the Red Cross. The pilots were reportedly captured following a mission aimed at an “enemy military base” in Qatar earlier this year.
Further complicating matters, a vessel in the strait was struck by an “unknown projectile,” although the crew is safe, and assessments of potential damage have not yet been reported. In response to heightened tensions, the UK Maritime Trade Organization has advised vessels to exercise caution.
As the situation unfolds, the permanent closure of the Strait remains contingent on the US’s acceptance of Iran’s terms. The ongoing conflict raises concerns about broader regional stability and the effects on international oil markets, leaving the future of maritime traffic in this critical waterway uncertain.
With each party steadfast in their positions, the situation remains precarious as diplomatic efforts seem increasingly remote.
