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Iran Asserts Strait of Hormuz Open, Blames US-Israel for Crisis

Iran's Foreign Ministry states the Strait of Hormuz is not blocked, but navigation is operating under wartime conditions. The ministry blames US and Israeli military aggression for creating a dangerous situation impacting shipping safety. It confirms blocking vessels belonging to or affiliated with the "aggressors" while allowing safe passage for non-hostile ships that coordinate with Iranian authorities. Iran asserts that full security in the strait requires an end to anti-Iran military actions and threats.

Key Points: Iran: Strait of Hormuz Open Amid US-Israel Tensions

  • Strait remains open for navigation
  • Iran blocking vessels linked to "aggressors"
  • Blames US-Israel for regional danger
  • Safe passage for non-hostile ships
  • Demands end to military threats
2 min read

Iran says Strait of Hormuz not blocked

Iran says Strait of Hormuz remains open for navigation but confirms blocking "aggressor" vessels after US-Israeli attacks escalated regional tensions.

"Iran has always respected the freedom of navigation and maritime security and safety - Iranian Foreign Ministry"

Tehran, March 23

Iran's Foreign Ministry said that the Strait of Hormuz is not blocked and navigation continues in the waterway, with necessary measures being taken due to wartime conditions.

In a statement elaborating on Iran's positions amid ongoing US and Israeli attacks, the ministry said that Iran has always respected the freedom of navigation and maritime security and safety, adding that it has worked to uphold those principles over the years, Xinhua news agency reported.

The ministry noted that following the US and Israeli military "aggression" against Iran, a dangerous situation has been imposed on the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, directly impacting regional shipping safety and security.

Claiming its legitimate right to self-defence against the "aggressors," Iran has targeted US military bases and facilities in the region while adopting a series of measures to ensure that the "aggressors" and their supporters do not exploit the strait to advance their aggressive goals against the country, it said.

The ministry confirmed that Iran has prevented the passage of vessels belonging to or affiliated with "the aggressors" and those participating in "the aggressions" in accordance with the established principles of international law.

Non-hostile vessels belonging to or associated with other countries, it said, can secure safe passage through the strait in coordination with Iranian authorities, provided they have not participated in or supported aggressive actions against Iran and comply with the announced safety and security regulations.

It stressed that the full restoration of sustainable security and stability to the strait requires an end to the anti-Iran military aggression and threats, a halt to the destabilising actions of the United States and Israel, and full respect for Iran's legitimate interests.

On February 28, Israel and the United States launched joint attacks on Tehran and several other Iranian cities, killing Iran's then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, along with senior military commanders and civilians. Iran responded by launching waves of missile and drone strikes targeting Israel and US bases and assets in the Middle East.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
The statement tries to assure the world, but "necessary measures due to wartime conditions" is worrying. It sounds like a partial blockade for specific ships. This will make shipping insurance premiums skyrocket, which we will ultimately pay for in higher prices.
A
Aman W
A classic case of big powers creating instability. The US and Israel's attack was a massive escalation. Now the whole region suffers. India must tread carefully and use its good relations with all sides to advocate for de-escalation. Jai Hind.
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Sarah B
Respectfully, Iran's position seems contradictory. They say the strait is not blocked, but then admit to preventing passage of vessels from "aggressor" nations. That is, by definition, a selective blockade. Clarity is needed for safe commercial passage.
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Vikram M
Our government needs to ensure Indian-flagged vessels and those carrying our crude oil are given safe passage. We have strong ties with Iran, but also with the US. This is a tightrope walk for our foreign policy. Hope our diplomats are on the job.
K
Karthik V
The timing is terrible. With global tensions already high, this threatens to push oil prices beyond ₹120/litre. The common man will bear the brunt. All parties need to step back and talk. War helps no one.

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