IRAN has signalled its intention to play a leading role in the governance of one of the world's most important maritime chokepoints, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declaring that Tehran and Muscat will jointly oversee matters concerning the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law.
The statement places renewed focus on the strategic waterway through which a significant portion of the world's oil and gas exports passes, making stability in the strait a matter of global economic and security importance.
Speaking in remarks carried by Iranian state broadcaster IRIB and cited by Lebanon-based television network Al Mayadeen, Araghchi said Iran and Oman possess a special responsibility and authority over the management of the passage due to their geographical position on either side of the strait.
Bernama -Anadolu reported Araghchi saying the two countries enjoyed a "natural right" to coordinate and make decisions regarding the administration of the waterway.
According to Araghchi, Iran intends to maintain dialogue with Gulf states regarding developments affecting the strait, although ultimate decisions concerning its management would rest with Tehran and Muscat.
The foreign minister said the objective of such cooperation was to guarantee the safe and uninterrupted passage of vessels navigating the strategically sensitive corridor in line with international legal principles.
His remarks come amid continued international scrutiny of security conditions in the Gulf, where tensions have periodically raised concerns about the safety of commercial shipping and the stability of global energy supplies.
Araghchi emphasised that cooperation between Iran and Oman would be directed towards preserving maritime security and ensuring that all vessels could transit the strait safely under internationally recognised regulations.
In the same interview, the Iranian foreign minister also addressed domestic political matters, saying communication with Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, remained active and effective.
He said guidance from the country's leadership continued to be received "in a timely manner" and was being implemented accurately by the relevant authorities.
Araghchi further sought to project an image of political stability within Iran, stating that broad national consensus existed in support of the country's leadership and that state affairs were progressing "in a very good direction."
The comments appear aimed at reinforcing confidence both domestically and internationally as Tehran seeks to portray stability in governance while asserting its role in safeguarding one of the world's most strategically significant maritime routes. - June 5, 2026
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