Iran says Hormuz Strait remains closed amid US sanctions and talks with Oman

Tehran warned on Wednesday that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed unless the United States ends its military campaign, even as Iranian officials discuss with Oman the possibility of a temporary transit corridor through the strategic waterway. The statement underscores Tehran’s leverage over a chokepoint through which a significant portion of global oil shipments pass, and signals its readiness to maintain a blockade despite diplomatic overtures.

Washington responded earlier in the week by imposing fresh sanctions designed to compel Iran to concede, a move announced by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who warned of “economic asphyxiation” for the Iranian economy. The escalating pressure and the competing proposals for limited navigation highlight the heightened tension surrounding the Hormuz corridor, leaving the international community to monitor developments closely for any shift in the region’s security dynamics.