Iranian FM Araghchi says Strait of Hormuz remains open

KABUL (Pajhwok): Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi says the Strait of Hormuz remains open and that delays or hesitation by vessels transiting the route are due to insurers’ concerns over a war initiated by others, not Iran.

“The Strait of Hormuz is not closed. Ships hesitate because insurers fear the war of choice you initiated — not Iran,” Araghchi wrote in a post on X on Sunday.

“No insurer — and no Iranian — will be swayed by more threats. Try respect,” he added.

“Freedom of navigation cannot exist without freedom of trade. Respect both — or expect neither,” Araghchi wrote.

On Sunday, US President Donald Trump had warned that if Iran did not fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz within 48 hours without threats, the United States would target the country’s power plants.

In response, Iran’s military said it would target all US energy infrastructures in the region if Iranian energy facilities were attacked.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important routes for oil and gas shipments.

Iranian officials say the strait is open to all countries, but vessels linked to the United States and its allies are not allowed to pass.

kk/sa