Iran's Foreign Minister Advocates for Safe Passage in Strait of Hormuz During New Delhi Visit

Iran's Commitment to Strait of Hormuz Security

In light of escalating global concerns regarding the security of the Strait of Hormuz and the delicate ceasefire in West Asia, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi conveyed a cautious yet assertive message during his recent trip to New Delhi. He emphasized Iran's readiness to guarantee safe passage through this vital oil corridor, while also highlighting that ongoing mistrust with the United States poses a significant barrier to diplomatic efforts. Speaking in Delhi on Friday, Araghchi echoed US President Donald Trump's assertion that the Strait of Hormuz must remain accessible, reiterating Iran's stance against pursuing nuclear weapons. “We share the same opinion. Iran has never wanted nuclear weapons,” he stated, referencing the 2015 nuclear agreement as evidence of Tehran's longstanding position. He reaffirmed that Iran's nuclear ambitions are peaceful and expressed a willingness to foster international confidence in its program.

Iran's Position on the Strait of Hormuz

‘Strait Of Hormuz Is Open’

In one of his most emphatic statements regarding the maritime tensions, Araghchi declared that Iran desires the Strait of Hormuz to be “fully reopened,” asserting that, from Iran's viewpoint, the waterway is operational. “As far as we are concerned, the Strait of Hormuz is open and all vessels can pass except the vessels of those countries that are fighting with us,” he remarked. He attributed regional instability to “US aggression” and emphasized that the strategically important strait lies within the territorial waters of Iran and Oman. “Everything should be managed by Iran and Oman,” he added, noting that both nations are currently discussing future arrangements to ensure the “safe passage of all vessels.” The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial energy corridor, with nearly 20% of global oil supplies traversing this narrow passage. Disruptions in the area, exacerbated by the Iran-US-Israel conflict, have unsettled global energy markets and shipping routes.

Mistrust Towards the United States

‘We Have Every Reason Not To Trust Americans’

Araghchi consistently emphasized Tehran's profound distrust of Washington, accusing the US of frequently altering its position during negotiations. “The current negotiation is suffering from a lack of trust. Every day is different from yesterday. A tweet today is different from yesterday’s,” he stated. In a pointed critique of the US, the Iranian foreign minister claimed that Washington only turned to diplomacy after failing to achieve its military objectives during the conflict. “After 40 days of war, when the US became hopeless of achieving any goal in their aggression against Iran, they offered negotiation,” he remarked. “We have every reason not to trust Americans, while they have no reason not to trust us.” Nevertheless, Araghchi indicated that Iran is striving to maintain the current “very shaky” ceasefire to allow for further diplomatic opportunities. “There is no military solution to anything related to Iran. We never bow to pressure or threat. Iranian people only answer to the language of respect,” he asserted.

Iran's Support for Mediation Efforts

Iran Welcomes China, Pakistan Mediation Efforts

Araghchi also addressed the mediation initiatives involving Pakistan and China, stating that diplomatic efforts have “not failed yet” despite facing significant challenges. He commended China for its previous role in mending relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia and expressed that Beijing's involvement in future diplomatic endeavors would be welcomed. “We know the Chinese have good intentions,” he noted. The minister expressed hope that successful negotiations would ultimately lead to the complete security of the Strait of Hormuz and the normalization of shipping traffic.

Strengthening India-Iran Relations

Strong Push For India-Iran Ties, Chabahar Focus

Beyond the geopolitical tensions, Araghchi took the opportunity to reaffirm Iran’s strategic partnership with India. “What matters for us is the good relations which exist between us and India,” he stated, while also indicating that India is free to maintain relations with other nations. He described the Chabahar Port project as a “symbol of cooperation” between the two countries and urged India to continue investing in its development, despite US sanctions hindering progress. “I am confident this port would be like a golden gate for India to access Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Europe,” he remarked. Araghchi praised India’s role in the region, referring to New Delhi as “a friend to all countries in the Persian Gulf” and expressed hope that India could play a more significant diplomatic role in fostering peace and security in West Asia. During his address, the Iranian minister expressed gratitude to the Indian government and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar for their support and humanitarian assistance during the recent conflict, emphasizing that Tehran “attaches great importance” to its relationship with India.