Iran Calls Hormuz 'Divine Gift,' Claims Right To Charge Transit Fees Amid Talks With US

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf on Wednesday claimed that Tehran has a sovereign and “divine” right over the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasised that Iran can regulate the waterway and impose transit fees. His remarks come amid ongoing discussions between Iran and the United States on shipping rights, ceasefire terms and the future administration of the critical maritime route.

‘Divine’ Claim Over Strait

Speaking to news agency IRNA, Ghalibaf said the Strait is a strategic asset given to Iran by God and described it as a key source of national power. “The Strait of Hormuz was a divine gift that God gave us in this war, which is our greatest instrument of power,” he said. Ghalibaf noted that Iran has the right to manage and regulate the waterway in line with international law and the rights of coastal states.

No Free Transit Beyond Initial Agreement

Ghalibaf also clarified that the US-Iran memorandum of understanding (MoU) does not guarantee free passage forever. He said discussions are only valid for a limited period. Notably, clause 5 of the MoU only mandates free transit through the Strait for 60 days. He added that after this period, Iran and regional partners, including Oman, will discuss how the Strait should be managed in the future.

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He also stressed that Iran will not compromise on the issue of sovereignty or transit control. “It is impossible that under any circumstances we would back down on this issue; meaning these are our territorial waters, and we will not allow the United States to create a ruckus or sophistry claiming that Iran has militarised the Strait of Hormuz,” Ghalibaf said.

US-Iran Talks In Doha

Meanwhile, the US and Iran held technical discussions in Doha today. The talks aimed at resolving disputes over shipping through the Strait and maintaining a ceasefire for a permanent settlement. The talks follow behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts involving US officials Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, who met Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani ahead of negotiations. Qatar and Pakistan are acting as mediators in the process.

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The discussions are based on a 14-point interim agreement signed on June 17 to end months of conflict. There are, however, conflicting interpretations of the talks. Washington describes them as part of implementing the agreement, while Tehran denies that direct negotiations with US officials are taking place.

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