Hormuz will not return to pre-war status: FM Spox

A New Maritime Route for the Strait of Hormuz

Iran's Foreign Ministry Spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei stated that the Strait of Hormuz will not return to its pre-war status, emphasizing that agreement with Oman does not mean reopening the strait. He explained that Iran and Oman have a shared responsibility to cooperate on maritime security and safe navigation. The two countries have been in talks since the ceasefire on April 8, with several rounds of exchanges taking place.

Baghaei noted that the first foreign trip by Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi after the war was to Oman, where discussions with the Sultan of Oman and the country's foreign minister included the issue of the Strait of Hormuz and the establishment of a secure maritime route. He also referred to the provisions of the memorandum of understanding on ending the war, stating that under its fifth clause, the future management of the Strait of Hormuz should be carried out by Iran in consultation with Oman and through dialogue with regional countries.

Ensuring Regional Security

Baghaei emphasized that Tehran's talks with Muscat are bilateral in nature and do not concern any third party. He stated that Iran must ensure that the Strait of Hormuz cannot be misused by parties that have committed aggression against Iran. This requires a mechanism in which Iran's sovereign rights are fully respected.

Consequences of US Aggression

The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson addressed threats by US officials against Iran, saying such statements were not new and that Tehran had already faced military actions. He stressed that Iran's decisions are based on national interests and security considerations and would not be influenced by threats, intimidation, or media pressure. Commenting on US President Donald Trump's claims that Iran had sought to stop attacks, Baghaei said such statements had repeatedly proven to be unfounded and described the use of social media as part of psychological and media warfare against Iran.

Warnings to Countries Supporting US Actions

Baghaei also warned countries that may support potential US actions against Iran, saying they will be responsible for the consequences of their actions. He stated that any country that cooperates in an aggression against Iran or provides military bases, facilities, or logistical support to an aggressor will place itself among those responsible for the aggression and must accept the consequences of its actions.