Iran conditions Strait of Hormuz reopening on US sanction relief

Tehran has declared that the Strait of Hormuz "will not be opened" until Washington meets a set of demands outlined in a proposed memorandum of understanding. Iran's conditions require the United States to end military operations, lift port blockades and oil sanctions, and unfreeze Iranian financial assets.

The statement comes amid escalating tensions in the strategic waterway following the largest US crude oil escort operation since the conflict began six months ago. Supported by air, sea, and space assets, the US operation also targeted Iranian military facilities on Larak Island. Iran countered by deploying rocket-launched naval mines into the passage. Observers warn that the battle for control of the strait is intensifying as both nations seek strategic leverage.

Sources: Expresso, Expresso das Ilhas, RTP (Rádio e Televisão de Portugal)