Tehran: Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has declared that the responsibility for reopening the Strait of Hormuz lies solely with Iran, underlining that all involved parties should avoid interfering with Tehran's management of this crucial maritime passage as per a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United States.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, during a joint press conference with Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein in Baghdad, Araghchi stated that under the terms of the MoU, Iran is committed to returning the Strait of Hormuz to its pre-war operational capacity within 30 days, contingent upon the removal of current barriers by Iran. He emphasized the importance of non-interference by other parties in Iran's handling of the strait's reopening.

Araghchi highlighted recent incidents in the Strait of Hormuz, which have escalated tensions with U.S. military forces, reiterating Iran's stance against external meddling in its strategic initiatives. He urged all parties to adhere strictly to the MoU and avoid actions that could derail its intended course.

During his visit, Araghchi expressed gratitude to his Iraqi counterpart for the hospitality extended by Baghdad and noted that their discussions covered a wide range of bilateral and regional issues. He praised the strategic and significant nature of Iran-Iraq relations and reaffirmed Iran's commitment to enhancing these ties through continued dialogue with Iraqi leaders.

Araghchi further mentioned that the MoU's first clause mandates an end to hostilities on all fronts, including in Lebanon. He commended the resilience of the Iranian populace during the conflict and the subsequent developments. Additionally, he urged the U.S., which has pledged commitments on behalf of itself and Israel within the MoU, to halt Israeli attacks, facilitate the cessation of the war in Lebanon, and ensure withdrawal from occupied territories.

The foreign minister's visit, accompanied by a political delegation, also included paying homage to Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani and resistance commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, who were martyred in anti-terror operations. The agenda further encompasses arrangements for funeral ceremonies for Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei across Iraqi cities.