Iran Claims Control Over Hormuz, Rejects Bahrain Security Talks

Iran has forcefully asserted its control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit route, and rejected a regional security dialogue held in Bahrain that was spearheaded by the United States. Kazem Gharibabadi, Iran's deputy foreign minister, declared that the Strait of Hormuz is "under the command of Iran, not the Centcom (U.S. Central Command)."

Gharibabadi argued that regional security would be best guaranteed by ending foreign interventions, specifically citing the withdrawal of the United States from the region. He emphasized the importance of respecting the sovereignty of regional nations and acknowledging evolving geopolitical realities. His statements came shortly after the U.S. announced that military officials from 12 countries convened in Bahrain to discuss Middle East security and reaffirm their commitment to free passage through the Strait.

“

The Strait of Hormuz is under the command of Iran, not the Centcom (U.S. Central Command).

The meeting in Bahrain, which included representatives from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Lebanon, and Syria, aimed to address security concerns in the Persian Gulf. This gathering occurred amidst indirect negotiations between Iran and the U.S. in Qatar concerning the implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding. These talks concluded recently, following exchanges between the two nations over the preceding weekend.

“

The security of the region will be guaranteed with the end of interventions and the withdrawal of the United States from the area, respect for the sovereignty of countries, and acceptance of the new geopolitical realities.