Tehran: Parliament Speaker Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf has firmly reiterated that Iran will keep the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz closed until the United States meets specific conditions, including lifting its blockade, ending oil sanctions, and releasing the country's frozen assets. Ghalibaf made these remarks while virtually addressing a session of Iran's Parliament on Tuesday, focusing on various domestic and regional issues, particularly the US's failure to comply with the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Ghalibaf emphasized that the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is contingent upon the implementation of conditions outlined in the MoU, which was originally signed by former President Donald Trump. These conditions include ending the blockade, releasing frozen assets, lifting oil sanctions, and halting all threats and military operations against Iran. During his address, Ghalibaf paid tribute to the martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution and highlighted the resilience and unity of the Iranian people and Armed Forces under the guidance of Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.
The Speaker also criticized the aggressive stances of the US and Israeli regimes, describing them as delusions of overthrowing Iran's Islamic Republic. He highlighted Iran's diplomatic and military synergy and the public's enthusiasm as evidence of America's defeat, which he claimed brought joy to Iran's allies and angered its adversaries. Ghalibaf further pointed out that the US's failure to adhere to the Pakistan-brokered MoU with Tehran marked a diplomatic setback for Washington, portraying it as a move made out of desperation.
He reiterated that Iran's Armed Forces, in close collaboration with the country's diplomatic channels, would continue to respond decisively to any breach of agreements. The Iranian nation's unity, courage, and rationality, Ghalibaf asserted, would remain steadfast in asserting its inalienable rights.