Iran Announces Reclosure of Strait of Hormuz, Expresses Complete Distrust Toward the US
Summary
Iran has decided to reclose the Strait of Hormuz, expressing complete distrust of the United States and warning that it will not allow ships from other countries to pass through this route. Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, condemned the removal of landmines as a violation of the ceasefire and warned of a strong response. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has triggered a severe fuel crisis in Bangladesh, prompting the United States to release 26 million barrels of oil from its emergency reserves. Kathmandu, 6 Baisakh.
The tensions between Iran and the United States are escalating rapidly. Iran, showing complete distrust towards the US, warned that if its vessels cannot sail through the Strait of Hormuz, it will prevent any country’s ships from using the route. On Saturday, following the reclosure of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran even fired upon an Indian vessel, signaling further complications for the global supply chain.
Iranian Warning Against Removing Landmines: Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, described the US blockade as “wrong” and indicated that anything could happen under any circumstances, emphasizing that Iranian forces are fully prepared. He warned that removal of landmines in Hormuz would be considered a ceasefire violation and met with a harsh response.
Qalibaf accused the US of being militarily strong but strategically weak in dealing with Iran, asserting that the US only makes decisions in favor of Israel’s interests. Regarding Iran’s remaining arsenal, reports from US intelligence agencies and The New York Times suggest that despite a large-scale conflict, Iran’s military reserves remain intact. It is estimated that Iran still retains 70% of its pre-war ballistic missiles, 60% of missile launchers, and 40% of drones.
Iran has released a new video showing damage to hospitals caused by US and Israeli attacks, condemning these actions and accusing the US of violating the ceasefire. The strategically vital Strait of Hormuz has been closed again. Global Impact: The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has had a significant impact on countries like Bangladesh. Dependent on imports for approximately 95% of its fuel, Bangladesh is facing a severe fuel crisis. Long queues have appeared at petrol stations, and the government has shut down universities and reduced office hours to conserve energy.
To mitigate the global supply crisis, the United States has released 26 million barrels of oil from its emergency reserves and made it available to companies. Negotiations remain uncertain; although talks were reported to possibly resume in Pakistan on Monday, Iran has ruled out any immediate direct negotiations. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh clarified that talks will not progress unless rules and a framework are established and the US reverses its conditions.
Contrary to former US President Trump’s claims, Iran has stated it will not transfer its enriched uranium to the US. There is vehement opposition within Iran regarding potential agreements with the US. Supporters of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the government, following the recent killing of top leaders, have protested, insisting that the US must not be granted leniency without just cause. Trump planned to present the seizure of 460 kilograms of enriched uranium from Iran as a victory, but the IRGC remains firm on not agreeing to a deal until the blockade is lifted.
Trump’s Praise for Israel and Harris’ Criticism: US President Donald Trump has claimed that, despite the ongoing blockade on Iran, a deal is near. He praised Israel as a brave, loyal, and intelligent ally capable of fighting and winning during crises. In contrast, former US Vice President Kamala Harris accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of dragging Trump into a war with Iran, putting American soldiers’ lives at risk. She stated that such a war is unwanted by the American people.