On July 1, two senior Iranian sources revealed that Iran is determined to seek international recognition of its control over the Strait of Hormuz, as well as its right to charge fees to vessels entering and exiting the Gulf, even if it means using force. Under a temporary agreement reached with the United States this month, aimed at ending three months of conflict between the two sides, Iran agreed to allow vessels to pass through the strait free of charge for 60 days. However, Iran believes the wording of the agreement allows it to continue controlling which vessels can pass and their navigation routes within the narrow waterway. The sources stated that Iran is also determined to ensure this control is formally recognized in the long term after the temporary agreement expires; its negotiators will not shift to other contentious issues in peace talks with Washington until consensus is reached on this matter.
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