Iran Says Strait of Hormuz Cannot Be Opened Due to Ceasefire Violations

Iran has stated that reopening the Strait of Hormuz is “not possible” due to what it describes as blatant violations of the ceasefire by the United States and Israel. The assertion comes amid heightened tensions in the critical waterway, where Iran recently seized commercial vessels following a U.S.-led ceasefire extension.

Iran’s Position on the Strait of Hormuz

According to Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s chief negotiator and speaker of parliament, the Strait of Hormuz cannot be opened as long as the U.S. Maintains its naval blockade of Iranian ports and Israel continues what Iran characterizes as warmongering actions. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Ghalibaf said these actions amount to taking the global economy “hostage” and violate the terms of the ceasefire.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian echoed this sentiment, stating that while Iran remains open to negotiations, “breach of commitments, blockade and threats are main obstacles to genuine negotiations.” He emphasized that any meaningful dialogue requires the U.S. To lift its blockade and cease actions that Iran views as provocative.

U.S. Ceasefire Extension and Naval Blockade

On Tuesday night, President Donald Trump announced an extension of the U.S.-Iran ceasefire that was due to expire on Wednesday. The White House clarified that the extension is open-ended with no new deadline. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump remains “satisfied” with the ongoing U.S. Naval blockade against Iran and believes the U.S. Holds a strong position in the standoff.

Leavitt added that the duration of the conflict will depend on Trump’s assessment of U.S. National interests, stating, “The cards are in President Trump’s hands right now,” and that he will act when he deems it in the best interest of the United States.

Recent Developments in the Strait of Hormuz

Despite the ceasefire extension, tensions escalated quickly. On Wednesday, Iran reported seizing at least two commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz for inspection. Iranian officials said the vessels were detained as part of routine maritime security measures, though international observers have viewed the moves as retaliatory.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital global chokepoint, through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil passes. Any disruption to shipping in the region risks triggering broader economic consequences and further destabilizing an already volatile region.

Diplomatic Efforts Stall

Plans for a second round of U.S.-Iran talks in Pakistan, to be led by Vice President JD Vance, collapsed after Iran declined to participate. Iranian officials cited the ongoing U.S. Blockade and perceived lack of sincerity in U.S. Commitments as reasons for withdrawing from the proposed negotiations.

While Iran says it welcomes diplomacy, it insists that any talks must be predicated on the removal of what it calls illegal blockades and an end to threats from the U.S. And its allies.

International Reaction

Global observers have expressed concern over the deteriorating situation, warning that continued hostilities in the Strait of Hormuz could disrupt global energy markets and increase the risk of direct military confrontation. The United Nations and several European nations have urged restraint and called for a return to diplomatic negotiations.

As of now, no formal talks have resumed, and both sides remain entrenched in their positions, with Iran maintaining that the strait will remain closed unless its conditions are met.