BAGHDAD (dpa): Iran has sole control over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz for the next 30 days, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said, after the fragile ceasefire with the United States (US) appeared to disintegrate amid a flurry of attacks.
The strait, a vital waterway for global trade, will "once again be placed entirely under Iranian administration within the next 30 days," he told a press conference in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad.
Araghchi reiterated that responsibility for the strait lies solely with Iran. "Any interference or attempt to create parallel structures would further complicate the situation, generate additional tensions, and delay the reopening of this strategically vital waterway," he said.
In February, when Israel and the US first attacked Iran, Tehran effectively brought shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz to a standstill through threats and attacks, using the strait as leverage in a bid to negotiate an end to the conflict.
The opening of the Strait of Hormuz to shipping is a key part of the framework recently agreed between the US and Iran.
The accord stipulates that Iran may not charge any fees for the passage of ships during the 60-day negotiations.
Iran is set to hold talks with Oman on how to proceed in accordance with international law and in coordination with neighbouring states. Analysts say potential fees could become a sticking point, particularly in relation to international legal obligations. - dpa
