Iran Says Strait of Hormuz Open to All Except Enemy Ships

In a phone interview with Japan’s Kyodo News Agency on Friday, Araghchi stressed that Iran has not closed the strategic waterway.

From Iranians’ perspective the Strait of Hormuz is open, but it is closed to ships belonging to enemies, countries involved in attacks against Iran, he said.

Regarding shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, he said Iran is prepared to coordinate safe passage for other countries, including Japan, if they contact Tehran to arrange it.

Araghchi referred to the US-Israeli war imposed on Iran, noting that the country was engaged in negotiations with the United States when the attacks began.

This is not Iran’s war, it was forced upon Iranians while they were negotiating with the United States, he said, describing the conflict as illegal and unprovoked aggression.

He added that Iran’s actions are purely defensive and that the country will continue to defend itself for as long as necessary.

The minister also praised Japan for a fair and balanced position, calling the country a longstanding friend of Iran. Araghchi said he had spoken twice with Japan’s foreign minister since the outbreak of the conflict on February 28 and expressed hope that Tokyo could play a constructive role in helping end the war.

Iran, he said, is not seeking a temporary ceasefire but a complete, comprehensive, and lasting end to the conflict, along with guarantees that such aggression will not happen again. Iran also seeks compensation for the damages it has suffered, he added. 

Araghchi acknowledged that several countries are attempting to mediate but said there are currently no signs that Washington is ready to stop its attacks.