Iran on Wednesday (April 22) said that the Islamic Republic would not reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz as long as the US naval blockade remains in place, describing it as a "blatant violation of the ceasefire."
Reopening of Strait of Hormuz 'impossible'
Iran's Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, in a post on X, said the ceasefire can only hold if it is respected in full, warning that ongoing actions at sea undermine its credibility. "A complete ceasefire only makes sense if it is not violated by the maritime blockade and the hostage-taking of the world’s economy, and if the Zionist warmongering across all fronts is halted; reopening the Strait of Hormuz is impossible with such a flagrant breach of the ceasefire," he said.
"They did not achieve their goals through military aggression, nor will they through bullying. The only way forward is to recognize the rights of the Iranian nation," he added.
Trump extends ceasefire
Earlier, US President Donald Trump announced an extension of the ongoing ceasefire, citing diplomatic considerations and requests from Pakistan. He stated that the halt on attacks against Iran will continue until the latter comes up with a deal and negotiations are concluded.
However, he added that the blockade of Iranian ports will remain in place and instructed the US military to stay on high alert.
"Based on the fact that the Government of Iran is seriously fractured, not unexpectedly so and, upon the request of Field Marshal Asim Munir, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, of Pakistan, we have been asked to hold our Attack on the Country of Iran until such time as their leaders and representatives can come up with a unified proposal. I have therefore directed our Military to continue the Blockade and, in all other respects, remain ready and able, and will therefore extend the Ceasefire until such time as their proposal is submitted, and discussions are concluded, one way or the other," Trump posted on Truth Social.
The standoff between the United States and Iran has significantly disrupted movement through the narrow waterway, which handles nearly 20% of the world's traded oil during normal times.
The ongoing tensions have already pushed global energy prices higher, with Brent crude oil crossing $100 per barrel—around a 35% rise from pre-conflict levels. The surge in fuel costs has also led to increased prices for food and other essential goods worldwide, although global stock markets have so far shown limited reaction.
Also Read: India rejects claims of cash, crypto payments to Iran for passage of ships through Strait of Hormuz
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