Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei stated in a television interview on Sunday, August 3rd, 2026, that "under no circumstances" will the Strait of Hormuz return to its pre-war situation despite ongoing talks with Oman. This was reported by the state-run IRNA news agency.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said negotiations with Oman over the Strait of Hormuz are in their "final stages," but Baqaei clarified that this does not imply the waterway will be fully reopened as it was before the military campaign launched by the U.S. and Israel in February.

Baqaei emphasized the need for a mechanism that respects Iran's sovereign rights to ensure the Strait cannot be misused by parties that have committed aggression against Iran. He noted that the resumption of fighting in the region disrupted plans to secure commercial shipping outlined in a memorandum of understanding signed with the U.S. in June.

"During the first 22 or 23 days of implementing the agreement, the northern route of the Strait was completely secure and ships were passing through it. However, before the end of the 30-day period envisioned for restoring maritime traffic to pre-war conditions, an act of aggression against Iran took place," Baqaei said.

Since the war disrupted the existing maritime traffic separation scheme, ships have been using either the northern route along the Iranian coastline or the southern route along the Omani coastline. Baqaei added that talks with Oman aim to establish a new route.

Additionally, Baqaei remarked, "Any assumption that threats and media pressure can make Iran retreat from its principled positions is inconsistent with past experience. We will continue to act based on what serves the country's interests."

Vessels were observed in the Strait of Hormuz from Musandam, Oman, on July 31, 2026, illustrating the ongoing maritime activity in the area.

Sources