Iran leverages Hormuz after Khamenei funeral

Following the funeral of late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, Iran has projected defiance and unity after the war with the United States and Israel that began on February 28. Tehran is leveraging its wartime resilience to demand recognition of its control over the Strait of Hormuz as a precondition for nuclear negotiations. Iran has slowed talks, turned back vessels, and warned against foreign military presence in the strait. Analysts say Washington's military campaign failed to break Iran's leverage, and the U.S. may have to accept reopening of the strait on Iran's terms. Iran views Hormuz as a political asset, not just an economic one, and seeks to institutionalize its influence through transit arrangements or fees. The 60-day ceasefire has not yet started its clock, and Iran is setting the pace, believing President Donald Trump is under more pressure to secure a deal.