Iran has decided to pull out of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States due to what it perceives as American violations. Iran’s Deputy Minister for Legal and International Affairs, Kazem Gharibabadi, emphasized that his country will assert full sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz regardless of the consequences, as reported by The Hormuz Letter.
The decision encompasses taking control of Oman’s share of the crucial waterway, a move explained by Gharibabadi as necessary for Iran’s national security in wartime, according to Tasnim news agency. The control of the Strait of Hormuz has been a key issue in the ongoing conflict.
In response to joint US-Israeli attacks on important Iranian sites, Iran had previously closed the vital trade route, through which 20% of the world’s oil trade flows. A recent Memorandum of Understanding between the US and Iran aimed to end the conflict within 60 days, working towards a durable peace agreement, restoring international shipping in the strait, and resolving disputes over Iran’s nuclear program.
However, President Donald Trump declared the end of the ceasefire at a NATO summit in Türkiye, stating his refusal to engage further with Iran. Gharibabadi criticized the US for violating and effectively nullifying the agreement, particularly through a naval blockade on Iranian ports. He affirmed that Iran has no intention of seeking negotiations with the United States.
Reports suggest that Trump has announced plans for strikes on Iran’s infrastructure, including power plants, bridges, and energy facilities, starting in the upcoming week. The US President also indicated intentions for consecutive strikes on Iran in the following nights.
