Ghalibaf says Islamabad MoU does not change Iran’s sovereignty over Hormuz

TEHRAN – Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has reaffirmed that the Strait of Hormuz remains one of the country’s most important strategic assets, insisting that Tehran’s position on sovereignty over the key waterway remains unchanged. Speaking in a televised interview with Press TV, Ghalibaf said the recently signed memorandum of understanding (Mo U) between Iran and the United States provides only a temporary exemption from fees related to maritime services in the strait. He stressed that the agreement does not alter Iran’s long-standing claim over the waterway or affect its sovereign rights. Addressing speculation surrounding the agreement, Ghalibaf rejected suggestions that Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz had been weakened. He also criticized what he described as attempts by the United States to portray Iran as having militarized the strategic passage. “These are our territorial waters,” he said. “We will not allow the United States to create controversy or sophistry by claiming that Iran has militarized the Strait of Hormuz.” The parliament speaker further underlined that Iran would maintain its position without compromise. “We will never, under any circumstances, retreat from this position,” he said. Describing the Strait of Hormuz as a vital national asset, Ghalibaf said it represents a major source of strategic strength for the country. Qalibaf also referred to the waterway as “a divine gift that God granted us during this war” and “our greatest instrument of power,” underscoring its significance in Iran’s national security and regional strategy. Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance said: “I actually think that the United States is in a great position however the negotiation ultimately shakes out. If the negotiation is successful, which obviously we want it to be successful, you have an Iran that is permanently transformed… if,