TEHRAN – Iran’s Foreign Ministry issued a definitive statement on Sunday clarifying that maritime traffic continues unimpeded through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, despite ongoing regional hostilities. The ministry emphasized that while navigation persists normally, certain security protocols have been implemented in response to current conflict conditions.
The declaration came as part of Iran’s comprehensive position statement addressing recent military engagements with the United States and Israel. Iranian officials maintained that Tehran has consistently upheld principles of maritime security and freedom of navigation throughout the volatile period.
According to the ministry, recent American and Israeli military operations against Iranian territory have created a precarious security environment throughout the Persian Gulf and the critical waterway. These developments have directly compromised shipping safety and regional stability, the statement noted.
Asserting its right to self-defense under international law, Iran confirmed it has targeted US military installations in the region while implementing measures to prevent ‘aggressor’ nations from utilizing the strait for hostile purposes. The ministry specified that vessels affiliated with or belonging to nations participating in attacks against Iran are being denied passage through the strategic channel.
However, the statement clarified that non-hostile vessels from other countries can obtain safe transit through coordination with Iranian authorities, provided they adhere to established security regulations and haven’t supported aggressive actions against Iran.
The ministry concluded that sustainable security in the vital waterway can only be achieved through cessation of military aggression against Iran, an end to destabilizing actions by the US and Israel, and full recognition of Iran’s legitimate regional interests.
The tensions referenced in the statement stem from February 28 joint US-Israeli attacks that targeted Tehran and other Iranian cities, resulting in significant casualties including the death of then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and senior military officials. Iran responded with comprehensive missile and drone strikes against Israeli territory and US bases throughout the Middle East.