Iranian officials have firmly dismissed recent statements by U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting a deal to ease regional tensions is close, particularly challenging claims about shared control of the Strait of Hormuz. This narrow passage, critical for global oil shipments, remains a core issue in the fragile negotiations aimed at ending hostilities between Iran and the United States.
Despite Trump’s announcement on his social media platform that an agreement had “largely been negotiated,” with plans to soon announce specific details, Iranian media tied to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps emphasized that Tehran will maintain exclusive authority over the strait. According to Iran’s Fars news agency, the U.S. assertion of an imminent deal is “incomplete and inconsistent with reality,” reflecting ongoing fundamental disagreements.
The Strait of Hormuz handles about one-fifth of the world’s oil flow, making unrestricted passage a priority for the U.S. and its allies. Iran has previously disrupted shipping in the area through threats and attacks, causing a steep decline in maritime traffic. The country’s insistence on maintaining sovereignty over the waterway has posed a significant hurdle in negotiations.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged “significant progress” but also cautioned that work remains before a resolution can be finalized. He hinted that positive developments regarding the Strait’s reopening could emerge soon. Meanwhile, Pakistan, acting as a regional mediator, continues facilitating discussions between Tehran and Washington, with its prime minister praising Trump’s peace initiatives and expressing hope for further talks.
Despite mediation efforts and intermittent ceasefires, the question of control over the Strait of Hormuz sharply divides the parties involved, leaving the future of the shipping lane’s access uncertain. Iran has recently reinforced its control measures at the strait, demanding fees from vessels passing through, signaling a continued assertion of authority contrary to U.S. demands.