Negotiations between Iran and Oman over the Strait of Hormuz concern vessel motion and navigation routes, not reopening the strategic waterway, a senior Iranian lawmaker mentioned.
Behnam Saeedi, first secretary of Iran’s Parliament Nationwide Safety and Overseas Coverage Fee, mentioned the talks “are under no circumstances about” reopening the strait.
President Trump has mentioned a deal could possibly be introduced as quickly as Thursday.
Saeedi mentioned in an interview with The Younger Journalists Membership, which is affiliated with Iranian state tv, that such discussions would solely occur after the U.S. ends threats, lifts its blockade of Iranian ports, leaves the area and a ceasefire is asserted.
“This situation shouldn’t be confused with the negotiations which can be at the moment going down, and it shouldn’t be assumed that these talks imply the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz,” Saeedi mentioned.
He described the strait as a strategic asset and deterrence software.
“The Strait of Hormuz is an achievement and a deterrent software out there to the Islamic Republic of Iran, and this software is getting used successfully,” he mentioned. “So long as the People don’t handle the problems I discussed, there isn’t a cause for the Strait of Hormuz to be reopened.”
Saeedi mentioned vessels utilizing the route would require permission, cannot be navy ships, and must comply with rules and pay service charges.
“The choice-maker concerning the Strait of Hormuz is the Islamic Republic of Iran. Negotiations are being held with Oman as a coastal state, and if it accepts Iran’s circumstances, an settlement can be reached,” he mentioned.
