Iran warns external Hormuz arrangements will prolong closure

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi has cautioned against any external attempts to manage the Strait of Hormuz, warning that such actions would only complicate the situation and delay its reopening.

Speaking alongside Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein in Baghdad, Aragchi stated that any new or separate arrangements would lead to a more complex situation and extend the closure of the vital waterway. He stressed the importance of respecting the existing memorandum of understanding recently signed between Iran and the United States in Islamabad, Pakistan. Aragchi called for regional countries to establish a new framework for cooperation, explicitly excluding interference from non-regional powers.

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Any effort to adopt new or separate arrangements compared to what is currently being done by the Islamic Republic of Iran will only lead to a more complicated situation and delays in the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and will increase tensions, as we have seen in the last two nights.

Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein echoed the sentiment regarding the importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz. He also called for the lifting of the U.S. naval blockade against Iran. Hussein affirmed that Iraq does not support any expansion of conflict towards the Gulf states, including Iran.

The exchange highlights ongoing tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil transport. Iran's stance suggests a desire for regional autonomy in managing the strait's security and access, while the U.S. maintains a naval presence in the region.

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Without the presence or interference of any country from outside the region.