Ali Mousavi made the remarks in a meeting with Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Arsenio Dominguez late on Wednesday.
Expounding on Iran’s positions regarding the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf, the ambassador emphasized, “As a country committed to the United Nations Charter and international obligations, the Islamic Republic of Iran has always stressed freedom of navigation and maintaining maritime safety and security.”
The current insecure situation in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, and Sea of Oman is a direct result of the military aggression waged by the United States and Zionist regime against Iran, he said, adding that Islamic Republic of Iran, within the framework of the inherent right of self-defense, has taken necessary and proportionate measures to prevent aggressors and their supporters from using the Strait of Hormuz for hostile actions, and has also implemented a series of precautionary measures to reduce the risks to ships and seafarers.
The Strait of Hormuz is open and maritime traffic has not been ceased, but continued navigation is subject to compliance with the safety and security regulations instructed by the competent authorities of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Mousavi underlined.
Any initiative, or arrangement related to maritime safety and security in this region must be pursued with full respect for the legitimate rights and interests of the Islamic Republic of Iran and in full coordination with the country’s competent authorities, he added.
MNA/6783657
