Iran Issues Tough Demands to Reopen Strait of Hormuz as Deal Still Out of Reach

Iran has issued tough demands as it seeks to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil chokepoint. U.S. and Iranian officials say a deal is close, but reporting indicates major sticking points—especially over who controls passage through the waterway and whether Iran would be allowed to charge fees. Meanwhile, maritime incidents and reduced traffic continue to keep pressure on shipping. Even with talks underway, the dispute still appears far from resolution.