Qalibaf: Strait of Hormuz Stays Shut Until US Upholds Deal

Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, asserted that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the United States fully adheres to the interim agreement's terms. Qalibaf clarified these terms include lifting the naval blockade and sanctions, alongside releasing frozen Iranian assets. The official warned Iran is prepared for a severe response, commensurate with any "enemy" actions or transgressions, aiming to inflict a heavier defeat than before. Last Monday was the deadline for Iran and the US to finalize an agreement, based on a June 17 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) designed to end the conflict. The MoU had set a 60-day period for a comprehensive deal, addressing issues like Iran's nuclear program and US sanctions on Tehran. However, the MoU, which mandated an immediate and permanent cessation of military operations, swiftly disintegrated due to a core dispute over control of the Strait of Hormuz. Asked by reporters on Monday if the US intended to extend the June interim agreement, President Donald Trump simply replied, "No."