Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Baghaei rejected Western ultimatum-style
language, saying the US maritime blockade was illegal from the outset, violated
the ceasefire and disrupted freedom of navigation. He said the Strait of Hormuz
has been operating under Iranian special measures since March 1 and that
merchant vessels must coordinate with Iranian authorities to transit. Baghaei
said Iran and Oman will play a role in managing the waterway, taking a
responsible stance to safeguard national security and international navigation,
and any bilateral mechanism will aim to serve both countries’ security and the
safety of international shipping.
