Image for representation purposes only Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said the Strait of Hormuz will not return to its pre-war status and could operate under a new framework if a proposed agreement between Iran and the United States is finalised. Speaking to Iranian state television on Friday, Araghchi said the draft agreement could be signed remotely in the coming days once negotiations are completed. He said both sides would initially sign the memorandum of understanding digitally before announcing it publicly. According to Araghchi, the proposed agreement includes the lifting of a U.S. naval blockade on Iranian ports that has been in place since April 13, as well as arrangements related to the future management of the Strait of Hormuz. “The naval blockade must be completely lifted,” Araghchi said, describing it as one of the key points in the draft agreement. The foreign minister said Iran had made a firm decision that the administration of the strategic waterway would no longer be the same as before the war. He added that discussions on the issue are continuing with Oman. Araghchi also said international law does not allow countries to charge transit tolls through the strait. However, he argued that charging fees for services provided to ships would be legally permissible and could become part of a future framework governing the waterway. He said Iran’s role in managing maritime traffic through the strait could change under the proposed arrangement. The minister added that temporary shipping arrangements could be introduced during a 60-day period after the agreement is signed while final negotiations continue. During that period, Iran would ensure the safe passage of commercial and civilian vessels, although military ships could be subject to separate rules. Araghchi said the proposed memorandum of understanding represents the first stage of a diplomatic process. He added that discussions on Iran’s nuclear programme, includin