Iran Military Claims Strait of Hormuz Control Could Boost Economy

Iran’s military spokesperson stated on May 13, 2026, that the country's control over the Strait of Hormuz could generate substantial economic benefits and enhance Iran's position on the global stage. Mohammad Akraminia indicated that maintaining oversight of the strait has the potential to double Iran's oil revenues. He mentioned that the western section of the strait is managed by the naval forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, while the eastern portion is under the jurisdiction of the Iranian navy. The control of this strategic waterway is a contentious issue in ongoing negotiations with the United States, which have yet to yield a definitive resolution.

In related geopolitical developments, U.S. President Donald Trump remarked on May 12, 2026, that the economic hardships faced by Americans do not influence his strategies in negotiating an end to the hostilities in Iran. He reiterated that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains his utmost priority. The Pentagon has reported that the financial toll of the conflict with Iran has now reached approximately $29 billion.

Amid escalating tensions, the Israeli military conducted a series of airstrikes targeting southern Lebanon on May 12, resulting in significant loss of life. Lebanese authorities noted that 380 individuals had been killed since a ceasefire commenced on April 17, as violence has persisted.

Additionally, Iranian officials are promoting a new framework that facilitates the passage of merchant vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, aligning with international regulations. Kazem Gharibabadi, Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, stated that Iran is open to initiatives from major powers, including India, aimed at fostering peace in the region. He pointed out that a demand by a member of the BRICS group to condemn Iran has hampered the consensus on the regional conflict, reportedly alluding to the United Arab Emirates.

In a separate development, Nasrin Sotoudeh, a renowned human rights lawyer in Iran, was released on bail following her recent arrest on April 1, 2026. Activists have claimed that her arrest is part of a broader crackdown on civil society amid the ongoing conflict. Her daughter confirmed the temporary release via social media.

In further violence, Israeli drones targeted vehicles on the main highway south of Beirut on May 13, resulting in eight fatalities, including that of a woman and her two children, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. The Israeli military stated that these strikes aimed to disrupt Hezbollah’s infrastructure in multiple regions of southern Lebanon. On May 14, Lebanon and Israel are scheduled to engage in another round of direct talks in Washington, facilitated by the Trump administration, in hopes of reaching an agreement between the two nations that have been in a state of conflict since Israel's establishment in 1948.