Iran Conditions Strait of Hormuz Reopening on Sweeping U.S. Demands

Tehran demands the withdrawal of U.S. military forces, war reparations, and the release of frozen assets, complicating diplomatic efforts to restore transit through the critical maritime chokepoint.

TEHRAN — Hopes for a swift resolution to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz dimmed on Wednesday as Iranian officials unveiled a stringent list of demands that must be met by the United States before shipping lanes are reopened. Following reports of ongoing talks between Iran and Oman, top security officials in Tehran have signaled that any potential agreement remains conditional. The demands include the complete withdrawal of U.S. military forces from the region, the payment of war reparations, and the release of billions in frozen Iranian assets. "The Strait of Hormuz will not reopen un…