An Iranian military spokesperson stated on Wednesday, May 13th that Tehran’s control of the Strait of Hormuz could generate “significant” revenue and strengthen the country’s international standing.

Iran has largely blocked maritime traffic through the strait since the outbreak of its conflict with Israel and the U.S. on February 28. In peacetime, this vital maritime artery accounts for roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, along with other essential commodities.

Tehran’s stranglehold on the waterway has rattled global energy markets, providing Iran with significant geopolitical leverage. Simultaneously, the U.S. has responded by imposing its own naval blockade on Iranian ports.

However, Iran’s attempts to control the Strait remains one of the key sticking points in negotiations with the U.S.