The Strait of Hormuz remains open and has not been suspended, Iran has said in an official statement, stressing that maritime traffic through the strategic waterway is managed under a regulatory framework aimed at ensuring the safety of navigation.
Iran outlines legal position on Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz statement was issued in an explanatory legal note from the Islamic Republic of Iran regarding passage through the vital shipping route. The document was sent by the Iranian Embassy in Cyprus and outlines Tehran’s position under international maritime law.
Iran stated that coastal states are entitled to adopt necessary and proportionate measures to address genuine security threats, in line with international law.
Maritime traffic management and safety measures
According to the statement, the waterway is regulated through coordination requirements with coastal authorities, designated navigation routes, and the implementation of security checks.
Iran emphasised that these measures are based on the rights and obligations of coastal states under the law of the sea and are adapted to the specific geographical and security characteristics of the Strait of Hormuz, with the aim of safeguarding regional peace and security.
Charges for navigation services
The statement also noted that Iran is entitled to impose proportional fees for services related to maritime safety, traffic management, and environmental protection.
It added that such charges represent payment for services provided and do not constitute unlawful restrictions on passage. Iran further argued that similar service fee mechanisms exist in other international straits.
Response to US legal objections
The statement also addressed opposition from the United States, noting that Washington is not a party to the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Iran argued that, from a legal standpoint, US demands for compliance with a treaty regime it has not ratified lack legal validity.
Source: CNA
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