In recent days, numerous ships have passed through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. According to a reporter from Iranian state television, 30 vessels alone have navigated the strait since Wednesday evening. It remains unclear whether fees were paid for this passage, a claim that Japan denies.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghtschi stated on the sidelines of a BRICS meeting in India that the passage for ships, supported by the Iranian naval forces, is still guaranteed. He called for the complete cessation of the war to ensure the safety of maritime movements.
The control of the Strait of Hormuz is a central point of contention in the conflict with the U.S. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed that Iran intends to claim the international waterway as its own and impose fees for its use. The U.S. government will not allow this, which could lead to a declared blockade against Iran.
Araghtschi emphasized the need for a diplomatic solution, while Iran has repeatedly ignored proposals from the U.S. He blamed the U.S. for the difficulties, citing conflicting messages coming from Washington.
