His remarks come amid escalating tensions in the
region following recent military developments. In an interview with American
Cable News Channel, Araghchi said the maritime passage has not been entirely
shut down. The claim from the Iranian minister comes even as hundreds of ships,
including many Indian vessels, remain stranded in the narrow sea lane between
the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
He emphasised that other nations remain free to
navigate the passage. The minister also suggested that some shipping companies
are choosing to avoid the area due to safety concerns rather than an outright
blockade. He maintained that several tankers and cargo ships are still moving
through the strait despite the heightened tensions.