IRGC Vows to Keep Strait of Hormuz Closed Until U.S. Meets Tehran's Demands

TEHRAN, Aug 9 (AP) — The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps declared on Saturday that the strategic Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the United States formally accepts conditions set by Iran regarding regional security and maritime access.

The statement marks a significant escalation in tensions across the Persian Gulf. Senior IRGC officials asserted that Tehran's demands are non-negotiable prerequisites for restoring normal shipping lanes through the waterway, which serves as a critical global chokepoint for oil exports from the Middle East.

"The Strait of Hormuz will not reopen until Washington accepts our conditions," an IRGC spokesperson stated during a press briefing in Tehran. The military wing emphasized that current restrictions are a direct response to what it described as unmet obligations by American authorities regarding regional stability and sanctions relief.

The closure has already begun to impact global energy markets, with shipping companies rerouting vessels around the Cape of Good Hope at significant cost and time delays. Major oil exporters in the Gulf region have expressed concern over the prolonged disruption, noting that the strait handles approximately 20% of the world's total petroleum consumption.

The United States has not yet issued a formal public response to the specific terms outlined by Tehran. However, U.S. officials based in Washington and regional commanders stationed in Bahrain indicated that American policy remains focused on freedom of navigation rights under international law. The Pentagon stated earlier this week that it opposes any unilateral attempts to restrict commercial traffic through international waterways.

Diplomatic channels between the two nations have remained largely silent since the announcement, with no immediate signs of a breakthrough. Iranian state media has framed the closure as a defensive measure against perceived American aggression and economic coercion, while Western analysts suggest the move is intended to leverage maximum pressure on Washington ahead of potential negotiations later this year.

The situation remains fluid as international shipping firms assess long-term risks associated with the Persian Gulf route. The International Maritime Organization called for immediate dialogue between all parties involved to ensure safe passage for commercial vessels and prevent further escalation that could threaten global energy security.

As of Saturday evening, no timeline was provided by Iranian officials regarding how long the blockade might last or what specific concessions would be required from Washington to lift it. Questions remain about whether other regional powers will intervene diplomatically or militarily if the standoff persists beyond the coming week.