Iranian Regime Demands $12 Billion Asset Release, Israeli Withdrawal Before Hormuz Reopening

TEHRAN, June 20: The Strait of Hormuz should remain closed until key conditions under the Iran-US memorandum of understanding (MoU) are fulfilled, including the release of at least $12 billion in Iranian assets, the implementation of oil sanctions waivers and Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanon, Iran’s Tasnim News Agency reported on Saturday.

The outlet, which is affiliated with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), said reopening the strategic waterway solely in exchange for the lifting of what it described as a US naval blockade would be a “strategic mistake” and a violation of the agreement.

Tasnim said the strait should remain shut until all commitments outlined in the Iran-US MoU are fully implemented.

The report specifically cited financial and economic measures, including the release of frozen Iranian funds and easing restrictions on Iranian oil exports, as well as Israel’s withdrawal from Lebanese territory.

The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes, has been at the center of escalating tensions following conflicting claims over its status. Iran has announced restrictions on maritime traffic, while the United States has said commercial shipping continues to pass safely through the waterway.

The latest statement adds further uncertainty over the future of maritime operations in the Gulf and the implementation of the recently announced Iran-US agreement