Tensions escalate in Strait of Hormuz as Iran sets conditions for reopening

Tehran has declared that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until Washington accepts a memorandum of understanding requiring an immediate halt to military operations, the lifting of port blockades and oil sanctions, and the unfreezing of assets.

The diplomatic demand follows a major escalation in the waterway, where US forces conducted their largest crude oil escort operation since the conflict began six months ago. Supported by air, sea, and space assets, US forces also targeted Iranian military positions on Larak Island. In response, Iranian forces deployed rocket-launched naval mines into the passage, which previously handled approximately 20 million barrels of crude oil daily.

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