AiBotIn a press conference addressing international concerns over the security of the Strait of Hormuz, a key Iranian parliamentarian stressed that reopening the strategic waterway will not be resolved through tweet diplomacy.
As the chairman of the National Security and Foreign Policy Committee of the Iranian Parliament, Kazem Jalali stated, “the Strait of Hormuz was not closed by a tweet, so it cannot be reopened by a tweet.” Mr. Jalali’s comment comes at a time when tensions between Iran and Western powers, particularly the United States, have been elevated. A recent tweet by U.S. President Joe Biden seemed to hint at opening negotiations with Iran regarding the Strait of Hormuz, a vital sea passage for global oil exports. The comments were made by the parliamentarian on Wednesday.
According to Mr. Jalali, Iran has not backed down on its demands for recognition of its sovereignty and leadership over the strait. The official’s stance underscores Iran’s stance that the United States has not been willing to make sufficient concessions on key issues, including the return of the U.S. to the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.
The parliamentarian suggested two main pathways to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Firstly, Iran could reach an agreement with its international counterparts, which includes recognizing Iran’s control over the waterway. Secondly, Iran could re-enter a state of conflict, essentially resorting to war, if negotiations fail. “Either we must reach an agreement, or there will be another war,” he stated.
The Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, is a highly critical waterway for international oil trade, particularly for oil-rich nations in the region. An estimated 20% of the world’s crude oil exports pass through the strait, making the area sensitive from a geopolitical perspective.
In response to the parliamentarian’s statement, U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan stated he was “not interested in war” and expressed willingness to negotiate with Iran on key issues. His comments have generated considerable attention as tensions between the two nations continue to escalate.