Strait of Hormuz at Center of U.S.–Iran Talks

Iran entered high-stakes negotiations with the United States in Pakistan this weekend holding a key advantage: control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global energy supplies.

The waterway, which carries about 20 percent of the world’s oil and natural gas, has become a central issue in efforts to turn a fragile two-week ceasefire into a longer-term agreement. U.S. officials have made reopening the strait a top priority in the talks.

Before the war, commercial shipping moved freely through the passage linking the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman. But shortly after the conflict began, Iran restricted access, allowing only limited traffic and reportedly charging fees to vessels seeking passage.

The disruption triggered sharp increases in global energy prices, with oil rising significantly during the height of the conflict before easing following the ceasefire announcement. However, shipping activity remains below normal levels, with many companies waiting for clearer security guarantees.

Iran has signaled it wants to retain some level of control over the strait as part of any final agreement, including the potential right to collect transit fees. U.S. President Donald Trump has sent mixed signals on the issue, at times criticizing the fees while also suggesting they could be part of a negotiated arrangement.

The focus on maritime access has shifted attention away from Iran’s nuclear program, which had been a primary driver of the conflict. While discussions on enrichment and sanctions relief are expected to continue, immediate concerns about energy flows and economic stability now dominate the agenda.

Despite heavy damage to its military during the war, Iran has continued to operate and retains the ability to influence regional dynamics. Analysts say its control over Hormuz provides leverage that could shape the outcome of the negotiations.

The talks come amid broader uncertainty. Differences remain over the terms of the ceasefire, and tensions persist across the region, including ongoing hostilities involving Iran-backed groups.

Officials from both sides have expressed cautious optimism about the negotiations, but significant gaps remain on key issues, raising questions about whether the ceasefire can be sustained.