Iran has declared that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the United States lifts its naval blockade on Iranian ports. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, the speaker of the Iranian parliament, indicated that while there has been some progress in talks with Washington, significant gaps remain, and a final agreement is still distant. The strait is critical for global oil transport, typically handling about 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas. Following a brief reopening due to a ceasefire in the conflict involving Israel and Iran's ally Hezbollah, the strait was closed again after US President Donald Trump insisted that the blockade would continue until a broader peace deal is reached. Iran's Revolutionary Guards have issued warnings against vessels attempting to pass through the strait without permission, increasing tensions in the region. Recent incidents have included threats to tankers and a shooting incident involving Indian-flagged ships, prompting diplomatic protests from India. The ongoing conflict, which began on February 28, has escalated tensions across the Middle East, with implications for international security and oil markets.