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Formalizing its control over the Strait of Hormuz has become Iran’s top priority in negotiations with the US. Tehran says it will not discuss the nuclear issue with Washington until control over the Strait is established.
Reuters reported on Thursday, speaking with an Iranian source who explained Tehran is unwilling to speak with American officials on the nuclear issue until Washington recognizes Iran’s full management of the Strait.
The Strait has become a major issue in negotiations to end the war. Before the conflict, the Strait was treated as an international waterway. During the war, Iran seized control of the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran has established shipping lanes through the Strait and charged a toll for vessels entering and exiting the Persian Gulf.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the US and Iran last month requires Tehran to lift all fees for 60 days. Iranian officials are meeting with Gulf Arab states to establish a protocol and fee structure for using the Strait of Hormuz once the 60-day period expires.
Iranian officials believe that control over the Strait is the most powerful weapon in Tehran’s arsenal.
President Donald Trump says he is unwilling to compromise, and the Strait must return to its pre-war status. US officials told Axios earlier this month that the White House has drawn a red line on tolls in the Strait, and is prepared to walk away from negotiations with Iran if Tehran does not comply.
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