Iran says Strait of Hormuz will remain effectively closed until US accepts demands

Iranian security official Rezaei said Iran would keep the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed until the United States accepts its demands.

The strait is a key route for energy shipments.

Iran wants the US to end its blockade of Iranian ports and release frozen Iranian assets.

US President Donald Trump has rejected those conditions, and Iran says it is examining the US response.

Rezaei said Iran is attacking ships that try to pass without permission, disputing Trump’s claim that the strait is already open.

The statement comes as talks to end fighting between the US and Iran have stalled.

Iran’s next step, according to Rezaei, depends on whether the US accepts its demands.