IRAN PERSPECTIVE

Tehran is playing a dual strategy at Hormuz, reflected across its media landscape. Iran International reports that the April 7 ceasefire delivered "temporary relief" to the US and the global economy: oil fell back below $100 per barrel, markets rebounded, and Hormuz could finally reopen. Yet a second narrative emerges: Iran "stands firm" on its control of the strait despite stalled negotiations. Tehran asserts it has authorised no vessel passages and maintains its sovereign claim over the waterway. This dual messaging—relief on one front, firmness on another—exemplifies Iran's real-time strategy: using Hormuz as leverage in talks whilst allowing markets to price in a thaw. Tehran recognises that each day of restricted passage strengthens its negotiating position, whilst rumours of reopening depress oil prices at a moment when Iran needs higher revenues.