Iranian officials indicate readiness to collaborate with the UN's International Maritime Organization to ensure safety in the Strait of Hormuz, which remains open to navigation under specified conditions.
Ali Mousavi, Iran's representative to the United Nations' International Maritime Organization (IMO), announced that Tehran is willing to work with the organization to bolster safety and protect seafarers in the Persian Gulf, as reported by the Iranian news agency Mehr. He emphasized that the Straits of Hormuz are open for navigation, except for vessels associated with 'enemies of Iran.' However, he stipulated that passage is only possible with coordination from the Iranian authorities for necessary safety agreements.
Mousavi reiterated that diplomacy remains a priority for Iran, yet stressed the criticality of reducing attacks and restoring mutual trust and security. He placed blame on Israel and the US, claiming that their attacks are the root cause of the current situation in the Straits of Hormuz. Moreover, his statements signify a substantial shift in Iran's maritime posture, suggesting a willingness to establish some level of cooperation amid heightened tensions.
It is noteworthy that Tehran has never officially declared a closure of the Straits. Nonetheless, the continuous attacks on tankers and commercial shipping have created a de facto environment of insecurity, leading to concerns about maritime navigation in one of the world's most vital oil transit routes. Iran's cooperative stance could potentially ease tensions and ensure safer passage for vessels in this critical region, depending on the response from other nations involved in the area.
