Iran says Strait of Hormuz open but under military control

On March 16, Iran’s Foreign Ministry stated that the Strait of Hormuz has not been closed, but shipping is operating under special conditions as Iranian armed forces are controlling the passage of vessels through the waterway, as reported by Iran International.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei said that due to the unstable situation created by the United States and Israel, Iran has increased oversight of ships passing through the strait.

“No coastal state in such circumstances can allow enemy ships and vessels to move freely in order to strengthen their positions or carry out aggressive actions,” Baghaei said at a weekly press conference.

He added that countries that did not take part in military attacks against Iran may pass through the strait in coordination with Iran’s armed forces and with their permission.

Earlier, Sabereen News reported that a Pakistani oil tanker was crossing the Strait of Hormuz “with the approval and by order of the IRGC.”

By Khagan Isayev