Iran's National Security Committee Endorses Hormuz Strait Protection Strategy

In a decisive session held on August 10, Iran's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee gave its endorsement to a strategic framework intended to secure the Strait of Hormuz and ensure sustainable progress in the Gulf. Committee spokesperson Hassan Kashkavi reported that the plan passed unanimously after members examined information supplied by relevant Iranian agencies. The legislation, which entered parliament on July 13, follows Iran's February 28 move to consolidate its grip on the strait, imposing restrictions on the safe passage of Israeli and American vessels after a series of joint attacks on Iranian installations. A June memorandum of understanding between Tehran and Washington set a 60‑day window for final negotiations, but escalating regional tensions have cast doubt on the talks' future. In July, U.S. forces carried out several attacks on Iranian locations, citing retaliation for Iranian aggression against commercial shipping. Iran, in turn, struck U.S. military sites with missiles and drones. Ongoing discussions with Oman aim to create a new corridor for secure maritime traffic through the strait. Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghi has confirmed that no active negotiations with the United States are taking place, insisting that any resumption of dialogue requires the U.S. to halt its alleged violations of the earlier memorandum.