Tehran University Professor: Sovereignty First, Compensation Next

CGTN (Global Business)
CGTN (Global Business)Apr 14, 2026

Why It Matters

The demand challenges the legitimacy of U.S. sanctions, potentially reshaping Iran’s access to frozen assets and affecting global oil‑shipping routes, with wide‑reaching economic and geopolitical repercussions.

Key Takeaways

  • Iran demands return of frozen assets to its citizens.
  • Professor blames U.S. sanctions for violating other nations’ sovereignty.
  • Compensation sought via transit fees from Strait of Hormuz traffic.
  • Calls for ending illegal sanctions and preventing future attacks.
  • Emphasizes sovereignty before any financial compensation agreements are signed.

Summary

A Tehran university professor called for the immediate return of frozen Iranian assets, arguing that sovereignty must precede any compensation discussions. He framed U.S.-imposed sanctions as illegal violations of both Iranian and international sovereignty, urging the global community to halt enforcement.

The professor highlighted that U.S. congressional sanctions force multinational companies to comply, effectively weaponizing foreign law against Iran. He proposed that Iran seek restitution through transit fees collected from vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz, turning a strategic chokepoint into a revenue source for compensation.

He quoted, “These assets belong to Iranian people,” and warned that without sovereign respect, future agreements could be broken, leaving Iran vulnerable to repeated attacks. The professor cited past U.S. agreements that were later abandoned as evidence of a pattern.

If Iran successfully leverages Hormuz fees or secures asset releases, it could alleviate pressure on its battered economy and shift regional power dynamics. Conversely, continued sanctions risk escalating geopolitical tensions and disrupting global oil flows, underscoring the broader stakes for international markets.

Original Description

Iran doubles down on homeland security and the lifting of all economic sanctions in any talks with the US. In an exclusive conversation with CGTN host Tian Wei, Foad Izadi, an associate professor in the University of Tehran's Faculty of World Studies, says Tehran will no longer tolerate persistent threats. He said US policies are undermining other nations' sovereignty. His message is clear: If past agreements can be abandoned, Iran will seek its own guarantees, potentially by leveraging transit routes through the Strait of Hormuz.
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