Marandi rejects Trump contact as tensions over Strait of Hormuz continue

by AZADEH AKBAR
TEHRAN, (CAJ News) – RENOWNED academic, intellectual and political analyst, Professor Mohammad Marandi of Tehran University has dismissed claims by United States President Donald Trump that Iranian officials or regional leaders have sought contact with Washington, saying there has been no communication between Iran and the United States.

Speaking about the current regional situation, Marandi said reports of direct discussions were unfounded and argued that such claims had been repeated previously without evidence.

His remarks reflect his own assessment and Iran’s stated position.

The United States has publicly maintained a different account of diplomatic developments.

Marandi also reiterated Iran’s position on the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as an area where Tehran intends to maintain close oversight.

He said Iran would not accept any arrangement that, in its view, diminished its role in managing security and shipping through the strategic waterway.

He further argued that any future negotiations would need to address broader regional issues, including developments in Gaza, Yemen and Iranian financial assets held abroad.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes, serving as a vital passage for global oil and liquefied natural gas exports.

Before the current conflict, international commercial shipping continued to pass through the waterway, despite longstanding geopolitical tensions in the region.

Since hostilities escalated, concerns over the security of the route have increased uncertainty in international energy markets.

Analysts note that instability affecting the Strait of Hormuz can have consequences far beyond the Middle East.

Even the perception of disruption may contribute to higher oil and gas prices, increased shipping and insurance costs, and greater volatility across global financial markets.

Rising energy prices can, in turn, increase transport, manufacturing and agricultural costs, placing upward pressure on food prices and affecting supply chains worldwide.

As military tensions continue, governments, energy producers and shipping companies remain focused on preserving freedom of navigation while seeking to reduce the risk of further escalation.

Diplomatic efforts are ongoing, although significant differences remain between the positions of the parties involved.

With the global economy closely tied to stable energy supplies, developments around the Strait of Hormuz are likely to remain under intense international scrutiny.

– CAJ News