US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, emphasized his country's firm stance on the sanctions imposed on Tehran, asserting that reopening the Strait of Hormuz alone would not be sufficient to offer economic concessions. Rubio clarified that freedom of navigation in this strategic waterway is a cornerstone and a top priority in any future negotiation path between Washington and the Iranian regime.
The head of US diplomacy pointed to the necessity of a clear and explicit Iranian declaration guaranteeing the opening of the Strait to global trade traffic without restrictions. He considered this measure the necessary first step to build any broader understandings, noting that the US administration is closely monitoring Iranian behavior in waterways before making any decision regarding sanctions.
Regarding the negotiation process, Rubio revealed tangible progress in some files that had been stalled for many years between the two parties. He explained that the Iranian side showed surprising flexibility in discussing technical points related to its nuclear program, issues that Tehran had previously refused even to put on the table for discussion in previous negotiation rounds.
Despite this progress, the US Secretary warned against Iran's long-term intentions, accusing Tehran of seeking to build what he described as a strategic 'defensive shield.' Rubio believes that this move aims to provide cover to protect the Iranian nuclear program until it reaches the stage of weapons production, citing Iran's continued possession of a huge arsenal of drones.
On the ground, Tehran has taken escalatory steps to regulate navigation, announcing that all vessels crossing the Strait must obtain prior permission. According to the new decisions, oil tankers and commercial vessels must submit applications to the 'Persian Gulf Waterway Management Authority' before commencing the transit process.
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard confirmed in an official statement that this new electronic system aims to regulate traffic in the most important waterway for global energy supplies. The statement obliged ship captains and shipping companies to register on the Authority's digital platform, considering these measures an assertion of the state's sovereignty over its territorial waters.
Transit applications are subject to careful study by the competent authority, as no naval vessel will be allowed to pass without obtaining official and documented approval. This step complements Tehran's decision to establish this authority last month, which was granted broad powers including full oversight of waterways and imposing transit fees on vessels.
These Iranian measures raise international concerns about turning the Strait of Hormuz into a tool for political and economic pressure amid escalating tensions. While Washington talks about the possibility of reaching a comprehensive agreement, observers believe that imposing a prior permit system could complicate the navigation landscape and increase the likelihood of friction in the region.
The first condition in talks with Iran is to allow the opening of the Strait of Hormuz, and Tehran must clearly declare this to global navigation.
شارك برأيك
Rubio conditions sanctions relief on opening the Strait of Hormuz, and Tehran imposes a prior permit system for navigation