Iran Vows Major Changes to Strait of Hormuz — VP Aref

Tehran — Special Correspondent
Iranian First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref announced on Saturday that the Strait of Hormuz will undergo fundamental changes, declaring that the strategic waterway “will never be the same as before.”
Speaking on state television, Aref said that the gains achieved during the conflict would be leveraged to secure both economic and security benefits for Iran. He asserted that Tehran is now positioned to redefine the balance of power in the region.
The Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply passes, has long been considered one of the most critical chokepoints in global energy trade. Aref’s remarks signal Iran’s intention to assert greater control — or at minimum, leverage — over the waterway’s governance and security framework.
“The Strait will not remain as it was. The sacrifices made entitle us to extract real economic and strategic dividends.”
— Mohammad Reza Aref, First Vice President of Iran
Analysts warn that such statements risk escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf and could trigger immediate volatility in global oil markets. Gulf states and Western powers are closely monitoring the developments, with diplomatic channels reportedly on high alert.