Iran Vows to Maintain Strait of Hormuz Restrictions Pending U.S. Negotiations

Sun, 12 Apr 2026 08:09:00 +0200

According to recent reports by The Wall Street Journal, Iranian officials announced that they will continue to restrict maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz until the United States agrees to a new geopolitical agreement addressing the ongoing conflict and sanctions. The statement comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, following Iranian military activities in the Persian Gulf and retaliatory strikes linked to both Israel and U.S. interests in the region. Iranian naval forces have reportedly increased their presence in the strategic waterway, which handles nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil shipments, signaling Tehran’s intent to leverage this critical chokepoint to gain diplomatic concessions.

Tehran has framed its decision as a defensive measure against what it calls 'economic warfare' led by Washington. While Iranian leaders insist that their actions are within their sovereign rights, the U.S. Navy has heightened its regional patrols, warning of potential disrup