Foreign minister says crisis follows US violations of International law

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi says the current situation in the Strait of Hormuz is a direct result of US violations of international law.

Araghchi made the remarks during a phone call with Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, where both sides discussed the security, legal, and economic impact of recent US-Israeli military actions against Iran.

He said the tension in the strait is linked to what he described as unlawful US military strikes on Iran, adding that those responsible should also bear the consequences on the global economy.

Araghchi noted that Iran, as a country bordering the strait, has taken steps within international law to protect its security. He also criticised some European countries for remaining silent, saying this weakens international law and global agreements on nuclear control.

In response, Tajani called for peace and stability in the Persian Gulf and said Italy is ready to support efforts to improve security in the region.

Tensions have increased since the US and Israel launched military action against Iran on February 28. Iran later restricted movement in the strait for its opponents as a strategic step.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important oil routes, handling about 20 percent of global oil and gas shipments. Disruptions there have already raised global prices and slowed economic activity.

On April 13, the US imposed a blockade on Iranian ports, after which the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said the waterway would remain closed due to ceasefire violations.

Iran’s army also warned that if its ports are threatened, other ports in the Persian Gulf and Arabian Sea may not remain safe.

Source: Press TV