Iran Submits Legal Document to IMO Denying ‘Blocking the Strait of Hormuz’ Accusations

On April 13 local time, Iran submitted a legal document to the Legal Committee of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) at its meeting, outlining its stance based on the outcomes of the IMO Council’s previous special session, CCTV News reported Wednesday. Iran denied claims that it is “blocking the Strait of Hormuz,” noting the root cause of the current deterioration in Persian Gulf maritime security is external military actions. It also emphasized any proposed “secure maritime passage” arrangement must have Iran’s consent. On the Strait of Hormuz transit issue of international concern, Iran clarified in the document the strait remains open to international navigation, but associated risks have risen sharply amid the worsening security environment. Regarding proposals from some countries to establish a “secure maritime passage,” Iran stressed that as a coastal state of the Strait of Hormuz, it lawfully holds the right to ensure navigation safety and management in relevant maritime areas. Any shipping arrangement must be fully coordinated with and approved by competent Iranian authorities; otherwise, it would constitute interference in the coastal state’s jurisdiction.