Iran, US remain entrenched over Strait of Hormuz and fuel prices
Iran and the United States showed no signs of compromise on Saturday, with Tehran vowing to continue its blockade of the strategic Strait of Hormuz and President Donald Trump urging Americans to accept higher fuel costs as the conflict enters its sixth month.
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said in a post on X early Saturday that the waterway will remain under Tehran's control until the United States recognises the reality of its defeat. "This strait will be opened and closed only under Iran's command, and so long as you do not accept the reality of defeat and stop indulging in fantasies, Iran will continue to enforce the blockade," he wrote.
Gharibabadi dismissed U.S. military and political pressure, stating that "The Strait of Hormuz cannot be seized by a tweet or an aircraft carrier, by issuing an order or by delivering an election speech." His comments came as both sides reported no progress toward peace talks, and oil tanker traffic through the strait remains halted.
The strait, through which about one-fifth of the world's oil exports passed before the war, has been a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies. The U.S.-led military campaign, launched on February 28, 2026, was aimed at preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon, according to the Trump administration. Iran has consistently denied seeking nuclear arms.
At a political rally in Garden City, New York, on Friday, Trump addressed the economic impact of the conflict. He urged Americans to tolerate "a tiny little bit more for your gasoline," arguing that the sacrifice is worth ensuring that "a very evil country" cannot obtain a nuclear weapon. His remarks were met with applause from supporters, but critics point to rising fuel prices as a significant burden on households already grappling with inflation.
The standoff has disrupted global oil markets, with prices fluctuating sharply since the outbreak of hostilities. Several nations, including India, have expressed concern over the instability in the region and its impact on energy imports. Diplomatic efforts, including mediation by Qatar and Oman, have so far failed to bring the two sides to the negotiating table.
Analysts note that both Iran and the United States appear to be digging in, with Tehran demanding an end to sanctions and a recognition of its regional influence, while Washington insists on verifiable guarantees that Iran will not weaponise its nuclear programme. The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, which began shortly after the war started, has effectively halted the passage of oil tankers, exacerbating supply concerns.
Iran's deputy foreign minister also repeated Tehran's position that the U.S. and its allies must accept the failure of their military objectives. "The era of sending aircraft carriers to dictate terms in our region is over," he added, in a statement that underscores the deep mistrust between the two countries.
The situation remains fluid, with no immediate prospect of a breakthrough. For now, the global community watches as the standoff continues to affect energy markets and regional stability, with ordinary citizens on both sides bearing the consequences.
