Iran UN Envoy Says Strait of Hormuz Will Not Be Closed

The Ambassador for Iran to the United Nations stated on Thursday that the nation does not intend to shut down the Strait of Hormuz, though he emphasized the government's commitment to securing the critical maritime corridor. Amir Saeid Iravani addressed reporters following recent comments from the country's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, who had suggested that the threat of blocking the strait remained a necessary strategic tool. > "We are not going to close the Strait of Hormuz." Iravani noted that while the passage would remain open, the responsibility for maintaining order within the waterway rests with regional authorities. > "But it is our inherent right to preserve the peace and security in this waterway." In a prepared statement, the ambassador reaffirmed that his government respects the principle of freedom of navigation under international law. However, he attributed the current volatility in the region to the presence and actions of the United States, arguing that external military aggression has undermined collective security. > "Rather, it is the direct consequence of the destabilizing actions of the United States in launching aggression against Iran and undermining regional security." The ambassador's remarks come as officials in Washington weigh options for protecting commercial traffic. United States Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently indicated that the American Navy might lead an international coalition to escort vessels through the strait. Iravani did not offer a direct response to these specific comments from the Treasury Secretary.