Control of Strait of Hormuz is Iran’s legal right, vice president says 

Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref has reiterated that the management of the Strait of Hormuz lies with Iran and constitutes a legal right of the Islamic Republic.

Speaking during a field visit to the Ports and Maritime Organization and the Railway Company of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Aref emphasized the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz. 

"The management of the Strait of Hormuz is with Iran, and this is a legal right of the Islamic Republic of Iran. We will establish our rights either at the negotiating table or on the battlefield,” he said. 

He noted that contrary to some legal claims, the management of the Strait of Hormuz is Iran's responsibility. 

“The Iranian nation has until now pursued this right with dignity, but after the third imposed war, we assumed this management, and Iran's role in this area will be different from the past,” he added. 

On Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced the reopening of the strait following the implementation of a ceasefire in Lebanon. 

However, the Iranian military announced on Saturday morning that “control of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state” after the United States has continued “repeated breaches of commitments” and engaged in “piracy and maritime theft under the so-called blockade.”

Aref underscored the strategic significance of controlling maritime movement in the region, asserting that such control would enable Iran to withstand any sanctions. He added, however, that the war will only end when sanctions against the Islamic Republic are lifted.

During the visit, a performance report was presented indicating that cargo unloading from ports during the recent US-Israeli aggression has been significantly higher than the pre-war period, and that exports and warehouse inventories have seen considerable increases.

Aref stated that Iran is not seeking to prolong the war. However, he made it clear that if Iran’s interests are not secured in the Persian Gulf, the Sea of Oman, and its ports, it will not permit any other nation to benefit from the region either.

He added that Iran has friendly and brotherly relations with the Persian Gulf, but warned that if these countries allow their territory to be used against Iran's interests, they will receive a decisive response.

Responding to threats from US President Donald Trump, Aref stated, "He usually presents his delusions and fantasies, and his positions change frequently. Therefore, his statements, which stem from rhetoric, lies, and delusions, do not need a response."

"The Islamic Republic of Iran, based on precise calculations, advances its strategies through the linkage of diplomacy and the battlefield, and will pursue its rights with authority,” he emphasized. 

He further said that whenever enemies come under pressure, they make requests through various channels, “but we do not trust them. We will always maintain our full readiness to confront any threat.”

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