Shipping official says southern ports remain open and trade activity continues despite pressure

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Iran says its ports remain fully active despite a United States blockade targeting the country’s maritime trade.

Masoud Palmeh, Secretary of the Iranian Association of Shipping Companies and Related Services, said all ports along Iran’s southern coast are continuing normal loading and unloading operations, with ships still entering and leaving regularly.

He said cooperation between the private sector and government agencies has helped keep port activity running since Washington announced the blockade measures.

According to Palmeh, no Iranian port has been shut down and cargo movement continues without major interruption.

He added that the U.S. campaign has not succeeded in stopping Iran’s trade in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, describing much of the pressure as psychological warfare rather than an effective operational blockade.

Palmeh acknowledged that some vessels have faced obstacles during transit, but said Iran has the ability to manage such challenges and maintain daily maritime movement.

He also pointed to Iran’s extensive land and sea borders, which connect the country to 12 neighbouring states, saying this gives Tehran alternative routes for trade and transport.

The official said Iran has increased use of other sea and land corridors to sustain commerce, particularly through stronger exchanges with partners such as Russia and China.

The comments come amid continued tensions between Tehran and Washington over sanctions, trade restrictions and regional security.

Source: Press TV