Rubio Says U.S. Will Not Lift Iran Sanctions in Exchange for Opening Strait of Hormuz

Speaking during a meeting with U.S. lawmakers, Rubio made it clear that Washington has neither considered nor discussed such a proposal with Tehran.

“There has been no discussion of this issue, and no such offer has been made to Iran,” Rubio said.

He emphasized that any future sanctions relief for Iran would be conditional upon the country meeting specific requirements.

According to Rubio, the primary conditions include ending Iran’s highly enriched uranium program and addressing broader concerns related to its nuclear activities.

“Any sanctions relief would be entirely conditional and dependent on Iran’s actions regarding the nuclear issue,” he said.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most critical energy transit routes. Roughly one-fifth of globally traded seaborne oil passes through the narrow waterway, making its security a key concern for international energy markets. Any disruption to shipping through the strait could have significant consequences for global oil supplies and prices.

Rubio’s remarks come amid ongoing speculation about potential understandings between Tehran and Washington, as well as discussions surrounding Iran’s frozen assets. However, his comments indicate that the U.S. administration is not prepared to ease sanctions merely in return for Iran ensuring uninterrupted navigation through the strategic waterway.

Analysts say the statement underscores Washington’s continued focus on Iran’s nuclear program as the central issue in negotiations. As a result, any meaningful sanctions relief or economic incentives are likely to depend on substantial Iranian concessions regarding its nuclear activities.

The comments suggest that while regional security and maritime stability remain important concerns, the future of U.S.-Iran relations will continue to be shaped primarily by developments surrounding Tehran’s nuclear program.