Iran sets new U.S. terms, stalling Strait of Hormuz reopening

Iran has raised new demands for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, undercutting hopes that talks with Oman were close to restoring maritime traffic through the vital oil route. Iranian security official Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr said Washington must lift sanctions and its naval blockade, withdraw military forces from around Iran, release frozen assets, pay war reparations and stop attacks on Iran’s regional allies. PBS reported U.S. and Arab officials believed a temporary arrangement had been near, with shipping lanes managed between Iran and Oman and no tolls. But those officials said Iran later hardened its position, with Revolutionary Guard figures pressing for broader concessions before any reopening.