Iran says it is ready to continue fighting over Strait of Hormuz

Iran is prepared to continue fighting to retain control over the Strait of Hormuz, Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has said, declaring that restoring the strategic waterway to its pre-war status is no longer an option.

Speaking on Iranian state television (IRIB), Gharibabadi said Tehran considers control of the vital maritime corridor essential to achieving its military objectives, Caliber.Az reports per Russian media.

"If Iran loses control of the corridor, its success in the war will not be complete," he said, adding that the Islamic Republic is prepared to continue military operations to prevent such an outcome.

The deputy foreign minister said Iran is currently in talks with Oman over the future status of the Strait of Hormuz, but negotiations have yet to produce a breakthrough. According to Gharibabadi, Tehran has rejected Muscat's proposal for joint control of the shipping route, as well as a suggestion to involve third countries in mine-clearing operations.

Iran insists on exercising full control over the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz and partial control over its exit, he said. Otherwise, the strategic waterway will remain closed, Gharibabadi warned.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important shipping lanes, serving as a key transit route for global oil and liquefied natural gas exports. Any disruption to navigation through the waterway is closely watched by international energy markets and governments worldwide.

By Aghakazim Guliyev