International Policy Research Center vice chairman Rashid Muhannadi said talks to resolve the Strait of Hormuz crisis are advancing despite public US‑Iran hardline rhetoric. He said Iran views control of the strait as a national security concern and is using it as a bargaining chip, but called that chip a 'depreciating asset.' Muhannadi added actions that impede freedom of navigation remain widely opposed, and parties appear willing to explore a mutually acceptable regional mechanism to manage t

International Policy Research Center vice chairman Rashid Muhannadi said talks to resolve the Strait of Hormuz crisis are advancing despite public US‑Iran hardline rhetoric. He said Iran views control of the strait as a national security concern and is using it as a bargaining chip, but called that chip a 'depreciating asset.' Muhannadi added actions that impede freedom of navigation remain widely opposed, and parties appear willing to explore a mutually acceptable regional mechanism to manage transit through the strait.