Iran's top negotiator, Qalibaf, stated that the nation has never welcomed war but must always be prepared to fight and stand until the end to safeguard its national security and interests. He emphasized the necessity of using diplomacy and negotiation tools to realize and secure these interests. The remarks highlight a dual approach of maintaining defensive readiness while pursuing diplomatic avenues. Qalibaf added that the country's armed forces have complete freedom of action as always to confront the 'enemy's aggression'. He asserted that national security lies in maintaining the 'Iranian arrangements' on the Strait of Hormuz.

Existential War with America

Qalibaf described the current situation as an essential and existential war with America. He asserted that the aim of this conflict extends beyond toppling Iran's system to fragmenting the country. This characterization underscores the high stakes perceived by the Iranian leadership regarding the ongoing geopolitical tensions. He further clarified that negotiation at this stage is not equivalent to compromise, but, along with war, is part of the strategy of resistance and protection of national interests.

Strategic Autonomy and Long-Term Approach

Qalibaf emphasized that Iran's approach in war or negotiation must be based on national interests and security, realistic, and long-term. He stated that the nation has no choice but to rely on its own strength and become strong. Regarding international agreements, he declared that if Iran is not going to benefit from a Memorandum of Understanding, there is no reason to adhere to such an understanding.

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has formally reinstated the naval blockade against vessels transiting to and from Iranian ports and coastal areas. Since restarting the blockade 17 hours ago, U.S. forces have redirected two commercial vessels attempting to run it. The military remains vigilant and prepared to ensure full compliance. The reinstatement was preceded by additional American strikes against Iran, launched at 3 p.m. ET, aimed at continuing to degrade Iranian capabilities used to attack commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. More than 20 U.S. Navy warships and hundreds of military aircraft are currently operating across the Middle East.

Operational Scope and Enforcement

President Donald Trump clarified the scope of the blockade, stating: "We will have a full blockade, but only on ships coming to and from Iranian ports." He further asserted that "all other countries will have fair and open use of the Strait" and positioned the U.S. as "THE GUARDIAN OF THE HORMUZ STRAIT." The move received public endorsement from former Defense Secretary Mark Esper, who characterized it as the "right move."

The following table summarizes CENTCOM's reported enforcement actions during previous blockade operations:

UAE Strategic Shift

While Washington focuses on securing the waterway, the United Arab Emirates is pursuing a strategy to reduce its dependence on the Strait of Hormuz. Dubai-based logistics giant DP World is planning a new port and container terminal on the UAE's east coast in Fujairah. This project would allow cargo to bypass the Strait of Hormuz altogether, marking a significant shift in Gulf trade infrastructure. The reported move follows severe disruptions to trade through Dubai's Jebel Ali Port during recent conflicts, highlighting the vulnerability of infrastructure inside the Gulf.

Explosions and Energy Stakes

Iran's Mehr news agency reported that explosions were heard in the maritime area of eastern Hormozgan and Sirik. The sounds were described as appearing linked to an exchange of fire in the waters of the Gulf, Gulf of Oman, and Strait of Hormuz. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi rejected Trump's plan to charge a 20% fee on cargo passing through the waterway, dismissing the proposal while reasserting Tehran's historic guardianship over the strait. The U.S. Energy Information Administration reported that oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz averaged 20.90 million barrels per day in the first half of 2025, accounting for approximately 20% of global petroleum liquids consumption.