Daijiworld Media Network - Tehran
Tehran, Apr 18: Iran’s Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf has accused US President Donald Trump of making “seven false claims in one hour,” intensifying the ongoing exchange between Tehran and Washington over the Strait of Hormuz.
Qalibaf reiterated that Iran could move to restrict or close the strategic waterway if the US continues what it describes as a blockade, directly contradicting Trump’s assertion that the route remains “open for business.”
Without detailing the claims, Qalibaf said Trump’s statements were false and warned that “lies” would not succeed either in war or negotiations.
Posting on social media platform X during Trump’s public remarks in Arizona, Qalibaf said the status of the Strait of Hormuz would be determined by “actions on the ground” and not social media statements. He added that passage through the strait would require Iranian authorisation and follow a “designated route” if tensions continue.
Earlier, Qalibaf had stated that while the strait remained open for business, the US blockade was still in effect, adding to conflicting signals emerging from both sides.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had also indicated that the strait would remain open for commercial shipping during a ceasefire period, while stressing conditions tied to regional developments.
However, Iranian state media Fars News Agency expressed uncertainty over the announcement, noting confusion within domestic circles regarding the situation.
US President Trump, speaking on Truth Social and in media interviews, claimed Iran had agreed to multiple concessions, including what he described as an “unlimited” suspension of its nuclear programme and transfer of enriched uranium materials, allegations Tehran has strongly denied.
Meanwhile, Iran’s National Security Committee spokesperson Ebrahim Rezaei said a draft law is being prepared to regulate transit through the Strait of Hormuz, including the possibility of charging transit fees.
Amid conflicting claims and rising rhetoric, global markets reacted positively earlier with oil prices easing and equities gaining, though uncertainty over maritime security in the region continues to persist.