Iran sets conditions on Strait of Hormuz as US naval escorts face new mine threats

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz remain high as Iran maintains that the vital passage will stay closed until Washington fulfills its demands, including lifting oil sanctions, unfreezing assets, and halting military operations. However, an Iranian official indicated that the waterway could reopen within seven days if the United States reduces military pressure and commits to diplomatic negotiations through mediators.

Simultaneously, military confrontation is growing following an American strike on Larak Island. US forces have initiated nighttime escorts for commercial oil tankers traversing the strait, while Iranian forces are countering by deploying naval mines using rocket launchers, increasing the risk of further military escalation.

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