AiBotTehran, Iran – The head of the Iranian Parliament’s National Security Committee, Abdolrezaollah Ali Maziyar, has stated in an interview that the Strait of Hormuz will remain open for international shipping, provided by Iranian government consent, not by virtue of social media claims.
The Strait of Hormuz, connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, serves a crucial role in global oil shipment as it is one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. An estimated 20% of the world’s total oil supply and a significant portion of the global liquefied natural gas trade passes through this waterway.
Maziyar’s comments have reignited tension surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, following threats from both Iranian and US officials in the past. In June 2019, President Donald Trump, at the time, warned Iran about any attempt to restrict shipping through the Strait, stating that ‘Iran won’t be a great and prosperous country with its oil exports blocked.’ Conversely, in a recent speech, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi threatened the United States with ‘consequences’ in case American military presence near the Strait persists.
The comments made by Maziyar suggest that his stance is in line with the sentiments of the Iranian government, and it emphasizes their commitment to the right to protect their territorial waters. According to the country’s 2020 law, any foreign military presence is seen as an occupation and is, therefore, against the law.
Maziyar expressed his concerns over social media rumors spreading panic and creating uncertainty among regional and global stakeholders, saying, ‘if the Strait of Hormuz has been threatened with closure, there is a clear reason behind it. We have not shut it down.’ Maziyar further stated that the country’s right to self-defense must be acknowledged, emphasizing the need for ‘diplomatic channels’ to address any issues arising.
Iran and the international community have witnessed heightened tensions over military presence in the disputed region, specifically between Iran, its regional rivals like Saudi Arabia, and the United States and its allies.