Iran has issued a strong warning stating that the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global oil shipments, will not be allowed to be used as a launchpad for any attacks against it. This message was delivered by Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Esmaeil Baghaei, at a press meeting in Tehran.
He explained that because of ongoing threats from the United States and Israel, Iran’s military is in full control of the strait. Any ships wishing to pass through will only be permitted to do so under strict security measures. Baghaei emphasized that Iran has the right to take any action needed to protect itself.
The spokesperson blamed the US and Israel for causing unrest in the area. He stated that, historically, Iran has been the one to guarantee safe passage through the strait. Baghaei also mentioned that in any past discussions with the US, Iran never trusted them and always approached talks very carefully.
Global Impact and Reactions
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz is a major concern because roughly 20% of the world’s oil is transported through it. In response to the rising tensions, former US President Donald Trump called on allies to help provide military support to keep the strait open. He specifically urged China to get involved, pointing out that China depends heavily on oil from the Gulf region.
However, not all allies agreed to this request. Both Japan and Australia refused to send military ships. Japan’s Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, stated that their constitution prevents them from deploying naval vessels. Australia also confirmed it would not be sending any ships.
On the other hand, the UK, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is working with its partners to develop a joint plan to ensure ships can navigate freely through the strait. European Union foreign ministers are also talking about increasing their naval presence in the area, though a final decision hasn’t been made yet. South Korea has said it will carefully consider any official request made to them.
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Conflict Disrupts Energy and Travel
The ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, now in its third week, has severely disturbed global energy markets and transport. The price of Brent crude oil has climbed to over $104 per barrel. Air travel across the Middle East has also been heavily impacted, with major airports in Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi operating under strict limitations. Vietnam has even warned its airlines to get ready for fewer flights after China and Thailand stopped exporting jet fuel because of the conflict.
Iran states it is simply defending its land and vital facilities. There have been reports of drone and missile attacks targeting Gulf nations and oil sites, though no major casualties have been confirmed. Meanwhile, Israeli forces have been carrying out operations in southern Lebanon and Gaza against groups backed by Iran, like Hezbollah and Hamas.
Recent Attacks and Iran’s Stance
In a recent incident on Monday, a joint US-Israeli strike reportedly hit a boys’ school in the city of Khomein. Photos show the building was badly damaged. While no casualties were reported, some nearby homes were affected. The Iranian Red Crescent shared pictures of the damage, pointing out the human toll of the conflict.
Despite ongoing claims from the US that it is weakening Iran’s military strength, Tehran insists it is fully prepared to defend itself for as long as needed. Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, made it clear that Iran has not asked for a ceasefire and is not seeking negotiations. He further condemned the attacks on oil facilities, calling them “ecocide” under international law due to the severe and lasting damage they cause to the environment and public health.