Iran vows to maintain control over Strait of Hormuz amid negotiations

Iran: Iran is the Islamic Republic of Iran, a key Middle Eastern nation with significant influence over regional maritime routes and energy flows. In this news, Iranian officials including parliament deputy speaker Ali Nikzad are publicly linking any reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to negotiations with the United States, reiterating that the waterway remains under Iranian control. Recent statements from Iranian leaders in September 2026 emphasize that the strait will not return to pre-conflict conditions without meeting Tehran's demands. Oman: Oman is the Sultanate of Oman, a Gulf Arab state that shares borders with the Strait of Hormuz and maintains diplomatic relations with Iran. In the context of this news, Nikzad noted that Tehran had reached an agreement with Muscat on the waterway but faced pressure from Washington. Recent developments in 2026 include ongoing bilateral talks between Iran and Oman on defining shipping routes through the strait. Ali Nikzad: Ali Nikzad serves as deputy speaker of Iran's parliament and has been a vocal figure on maritime security issues. In the reported news, he stated that negotiations are now tied to the Strait of Hormuz and that Iran will not back down over it. Recent public comments from Nikzad in 2026 have framed the strait as a strategic asset for Iran in its dealings with Washington and highlighted agreements reached with Oman despite external pressures. Diplomacy: Recent reports indicate that the UN General Assembly in September 2026 is viewed by Iranian officials as a potential opportunity to revive diplomatic engagement with the United States on issues including the Strait of Hormuz. Regional Relations: Iran and Oman have been engaged in discussions on temporary shipping corridors and route agreements through the Strait of Hormuz, with details continuing to be finalized in recent months amid broader tensions.