Iran Rejects Southern Route in Strait of Hormuz, Says Deputy FM

Kazem Gharibabadi, Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs of Iran, stated in a Tuesday evening interview with national Iranian TV that Iran does not recognize the southern route in the Strait of Hormuz, even for an hour. He emphasized the need to examine the legal aspects and obligations of parties under the Islamabad memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between Iran and the United States.

Gharibabadi noted that while some countries proposed ships pass through the southern route, this was a clear violation of the MoU. He said that reopening the strait is up to Iran and in accordance with Iranian arrangements under the MoU. The deputy foreign minister added that Iran gave a decisive and proportionate response to US aggressions after the US violated the agreement.

He also mentioned that Iran has not requested any talks with Washington over the past 15 days during and after the clashes. Gharibabadi stated that it is up to high-ranking officials of the Islamic Establishment to decide whether to continue clashes or start talks. The interview covered the targeting of ships and the need to analyze the obligations of all relevant parties, including the US and Oman, regarding the southern route.

According to Mehr News, Gharibabadi stressed that when parties reach an agreement, all aspects must be implemented carefully as agreed. He clarified that creating the southern route was in clear violation of the MoU, and Iran's position remains firm on non-recognition.