Iranian Foreign Ministry Explains Hormuz Strait Transit Principle

Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement on March 23 regarding developments from the 22nd, confirming the Strait of Hormuz remains open. Vessels may transit the waterway provided they follow necessary precautions amid the ongoing conflict, the statement said, while outlining Iran’s core principles on the strait’s navigation and safety. The statement clarified that vessels linked to the U.S., Israel, and other "aggressor countries" do not meet criteria for normal, non-hostile passage. Iran will address such vessels in accordance with the law, it noted. Non-hostile vessels from other nations (or affiliated with them) that do not participate in or assist with aggression against Iran and comply with Iran’s announced safety rules and measures may transit safely after coordinating with Iran’s competent authorities. The statement stressed that fully restoring the Strait of Hormuz’s sustainable security and stability requires ending military aggression and threats against Iran, halting U.S. and Israeli actions that undermine Iran’s stability, and fully respecting Iran’s legitimate interests. (Source: Golden Finance)