Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi emphasized Iran’s stance on maritime navigation rules and transit arrangements in the Strait of Hormuz. Gharibabadi highlighted the necessity for safe passage through the strait based on coordination with Iran and the provisions of the Islamabad memorandum of understanding.
The United States and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) recently reaffirmed their strategic partnership and supported the June 17 memorandum of understanding between Washington and Tehran. They emphasized that no tolls or fees should be imposed on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The joint declaration was made following a ministerial meeting in Manama attended by key officials.
The ministers at the meeting emphasized the importance of free, unconditional, and unrestricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical energy shipping lane. Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy reiterated that vessels must follow the authorized routes announced by Iranian authorities for safe passage through the strait.
The IRGC Navy warned against ships using unauthorized routes, stating that such movements are dangerous and prohibited. The emphasis remains on ensuring freedom of navigation in the region and addressing various threats posed by Iran, including ballistic missiles, drones, and support for proxy groups.
