Iran maintains Hormuz blockade as diplomatic proposal fails and military tension rises

Tehran has reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz will remain blocked unless Washington fulfills its conditions, including lifting oil sanctions, unfreezing Iranian assets, and ending military operations. Although Iranian officials floated a proposal to reopen the strategic passage within seven days in exchange for reduced American military pressure, US President Donald Trump rejected the initiative. Tehran noted it is aware of Washington's initial refusal but remains waiting for a definitive position.

Concurrently, military confrontations near the waterway have intensified. Following a US strike on Larak Island and nighttime escorts for commercial vessels, Iranian forces responded by deploying rocket-launched naval mines into the channel, escalating maritime security risks.

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