Strait Of Hormuz Restricted For U.S. And Israeli Vessels, Says Iranian Foreign Minister

Iran's Position on the Strait of Hormuz

  • Abbas Araqchi the Iranian Foreign Minister declared that the Strait of Hormuz currently permits passage only to vessels which have connections to the United States and Israel. He explained that ships from other countries are still allowed to pass through the waterway.
  • Araqchi reported that international ships currently avoid entering the strait. He explained that these countries make their selection based on the security risks which those nations have identified. He explained that the security problems which exist can be attributed to countries other than Iran.
  • He confirmed that oil tankers and commercial vessels maintain their regular operations through the Strait of Hormuz.

Comments on U.S. Claims and Military Presence

  • U.S. President Donald Trump made his statement after Araqchi had declared that countries including China France and Japan experienced difficulties at the Strait of Hormuz. Trump said these nations were encountering “artificial obstacles” in the region.
  • Warships from various nations are reportedly being sent to the area to maintain protection of shipping routes because of these security issues.

Response to Reports About Mojtaba Khamenei

  • Araqchi also addressed reports about Mojtaba Khamenei who is described as Iran's new Supreme Leader. Some U.S. sources claimed that he had been injured in recent attacks.
  • Araqchi rejected these claims. He stated that Mojtaba Khamenei remains healthy while executing his constitutional responsibilities throughout the country.
  • He explained that Iran's political system operates independently from any particular leader. According to him the country''s institutions remain strong and stable even during difficult situations.

Statements About the Geneva Talks

  • Araqchi also responded to reports about last month’s negotiations in Geneva. Some reports claimed that he argued strongly with U.S. representatives Steve Witkoff and Kushner during the talks.
  • The reports also suggested that he threatened them by saying Iran had enough uranium to produce eleven nuclear bombs.
  • Araqchi denied these allegations. He said the situation had been misunderstood. He added that he hopes the real details of the Geneva discussions will become clear in the future.