Iran’s Stance on the Strait of Hormuz
In an interview with MS NOW, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi asserted that the United States and Israel are the only nations barred from using the Strait of Hormuz. This statement came in light of Iran’s response to Operation Epic Fury, during which the country launched numerous ballistic missiles and drones at various targets across the Middle East.
When asked by host Ayman Moheruddin about the nature of the attacks, Araghchi emphasized that Iran was not aiming at commercial ships. He was questioned specifically on whether the Strait of Hormuz would remain inaccessible amid ongoing hostilities.
“The fact is that the Strait of Hormuz is open,” he asserted. “The only ones restricted are enemy vessels—ships from the U.S. and Israel. Other ships are allowed to pass through, although many avoid it due to safety concerns.”
Araghchi continued, stating, “This situation doesn’t concern us directly. Many tankers are indeed moving through the Strait of Hormuz. It’s not closed to everyone, just to U.S. and Israeli vessels.”
Recent reports indicate that at least 16 commercial ships have been attacked in the Persian Gulf, according to the New York Times.
In a related note, President Donald Trump shared on Truth Social that several nations would be dispatching naval forces to escort tankers and commercial vessels through the Strait. He mentioned, “Countries affected by Iran’s attempts to disrupt passage will coordinate with the U.S. to ensure safety in the area. Despite having weakened Iran’s military capabilities, they could still deploy drones, mines, or missiles in this strategic waterway,” he elaborated.
Trump expressed hope that nations like China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom would join in sending vessels to the region to prevent the Strait of Hormuz from becoming a danger to surrounding nations. “Meanwhile, we will persist in our offensive measures, targeting the Iranian coastline and intercepting their boats at sea. Ultimately, we aim to keep the Strait of Hormuz open, safe, and liberated,” he stated.
