Iran’s parliament has commenced the process of approving a plan for smart management of the Strait of Hormuz. The plan, which has garnered over 250 signatures from members of parliament, aims to enhance security in the waterway and collect tolls in the local currency, the rial. This initiative includes objectives such as ensuring shipping security, charging environmental polluters, collecting fees for guidance services, and establishing a regional development fund.
The recent actions by Iran in tightening control over the Strait of Hormuz have involved restricting passage for vessels associated with Israel, the United States, and their allies. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi criticized certain European countries for overlooking “brutal attacks against the Iranian people” while focusing solely on the conflict’s economic repercussions. Araghchi warned of Iran’s readiness to conduct defensive operations, including strikes on US and Israeli military bases in regional countries, and cautioned against provocative actions in the Strait of Hormuz that could escalate the crisis.
In a phone conversation with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, Araghchi emphasized the need for stronger diplomatic efforts to end the conflict and restore regional stability. Barrot reiterated France’s stance against attacks on civilian targets and expressed concerns over tensions in various regions, including Lebanon. The recent military actions involving joint attacks by Israel and the United States on Tehran, resulting in casualties including Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, have escalated tensions, leading to retaliatory missile and drone strikes by Iran on Israel and US bases in the Middle East.
