Tehran: Iran has asserted that the United States lacks the moral or legal authority to demand the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, following Iran's decision to close the vital shipping route. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei stated that the move was a direct response to ongoing aggressive actions by the US against Iran.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Baqaei addressed the issue during his weekly press briefing, responding to claims made by the New York Times regarding Iran's demands linked to the reopening of the strait. These demands include compensation, lifting the Yemen blockade, withdrawal of American forces, and updates to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. Baqaei criticized the American media's portrayal of events, suggesting it obscures the underlying reasons for the strait's closure, which he attributed to US-Israeli military actions in March.
Baqaei emphasized that despite enduring Western sanctions, Iran has always allowed the passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical channel for global energy supplies. He reiterated that the current tensions were sparked by US-Israeli aggression and stated that any US concerns should be directed towards its own government, which he accused of besieging Iranian ports and attacking ships.
The spokesperson made it clear that as long as these American violations persist, the status quo will remain unchanged. He also addressed rumors of discord within Iran's government regarding negotiations with Oman over the strait, asserting that there is coordination among the Foreign Ministry, Supreme National Security Council, and the Parliament.
Baqaei mentioned the parliament's ongoing review of a draft bill on managing the strait, highlighting the importance of communication and consultation in advancing national interests. He also noted a productive meeting between Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and the National Security and Foreign Policy Commission.
In discussing legal actions, Baqaei referred to documentation of US crimes, including the use of banned weapons in Iran, which has been submitted to international authorities. He stated that a joint team from the Foreign Ministry and Judiciary is preparing to pursue these matters legally, starting with domestic trials.
Addressing inquiries about potential US-Iran negotiations, Baqaei clarified that no talks have taken place, although message exchanges through mediators occur naturally. Currently, Iran is prioritizing negotiations with Oman regarding the strait's shipping routes.
Baqaei also spoke about the management of the Strait of Hormuz, clarifying that the Islamabad MoU outlines Iran's responsibilities, and discussions with Oman continue to ensure safe maritime passage. He stressed that the southern route, proposed by the US, is unsafe and unauthorized.
Finally, Baqaei addressed questions about changes in the Supreme National Security Council, stating that decision-making is institutional, not individual, and congratulated Mohsen Rezaei on his appointment as the new secretary of the SNSC. The Foreign Ministry remains committed to coordinating with the SNSC to protect Iran's interests.