Iran declares Strait of Hormuz its 'greatest power asset,' rejects French mine clearance offer
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
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- Iran's top negotiator declared the Strait of Hormuz a major asset, stating that final agreement talks would only begin after a signed memorandum of understanding with the U.S. is implemented.
- Iran asserts its sovereign right, alongside Oman, to manage traffic in the Strait and plans to impose tolls starting mid-August.
- Iran rejected France's offer to clear mines in the Strait, warning against provocative actions and emphasizing its sole responsibility for mine clearance operations.
Iran has asserted its control over the Strait of Hormuz, with its top negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf calling it Tehran's "greatest power asset." He stated that negotiations for a final agreement would only commence once provisions in a memorandum of understanding with the United States are implemented.
The sovereignty of the Strait of Hormuz lies with Iran and Oman, while traffic in the strait is subject to arrangements determined by Iran.
Ghalibaf emphasized that sovereignty over the Strait lies with Iran and Oman, and all traffic is subject to Tehran's regulations. He further announced that tolls would be collected starting mid-August, following the expiry of a previously agreed 60-day period. This assertion of control comes amid heightened regional tensions.
Adding to the friction, Iran has rejected an offer from France, supported by Oman, to clear mines in the Strait. Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs, Kazem Gharibabadi, stated that Iran alone holds the responsibility for mine clearance and warned France against provocative actions that could complicate the situation. This dispute follows a recent incident where Iran launched a drone towards a U.S.-backed ship in the Omani waters, reportedly in protest of Muscat opening an alternative shipping route.
Mine clearance operations will only be carried out exclusively by Iran and not by any other country. In principle, we will not allow any other country to do so.
Despite a signed MoU indicating Iran's responsibility for mine clearance and ensuring safe passage, U.S. naval experts question Tehran's capability and technology for such a large-scale operation. They suggest Iran should identify mine locations to allow others to conduct the clearance. Meanwhile, Iran has denied claims of direct negotiations with the U.S. during a recent trip by Iranian officials to Doha.
This situation is sensitive and complex. We advise France not to complicate the situation further through provocative actions.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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