Iran Asserts Right to Secure Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions

Iran has firmly stated it will not close the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing its right to maintain security in this vital waterway. Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, including military actions by Israel and the US, oil prices have surged. Key updates reveal the impact of the conflict on global oil supply and the humanitarian situation in Iran. This article delves into the latest developments and the broader implications of the ongoing crisis.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 13, 2026, 11:35 IST

Iran's Stance on the Strait of Hormuz

On Thursday, Iran declared it would not shut down the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports. The Iranian government emphasized its right to maintain peace and security in this crucial maritime route.

This assertion was made by Iran’s UN Ambassador Saeid Iravani shortly after the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, indicated that Iran would persist in obstructing the Strait of Hormuz.

Approximately 20% of the world's oil supply transits through this vital chokepoint.

Key Updates on the West Asia Conflict:

Iravani stated at the UN that Iran is committed to upholding the principle of freedom of navigation as per international maritime law. However, he noted that the increasing tensions in West Asia, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, are not due to Iran's legitimate self-defense actions.
Following Khamenei's remarks about keeping the Strait closed to counter pressure from adversaries, Brent crude oil prices surged past $100 per barrel again. Since the onset of joint military actions by Israel and the United States against Iran on February 28, oil prices have risen nearly 40%.
A Liberia-flagged oil tanker, which departed from Saudi Arabia on March 3 carrying around one million barrels of crude oil, successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz and arrived in Mumbai on Wednesday. This marks the first such delivery to India since the conflict escalated.
In a separate incident, a US military refueling aircraft crashed in Iraq early Friday morning. The US Central Command reported that the crash occurred in friendly airspace, and rescue operations are currently underway.
Qatar Airways announced plans to operate 143 flights from March 13 to March 17 to assist individuals stranded in Doha, as well as residents of Qatar who are currently outside the country.
The US Central Command revealed that it has targeted around 6,000 locations in Iran since the conflict began, including 60 ships and 30 minelaying vessels, along with various military installations.
According to reports, over 1,200 individuals have lost their lives in Iran since February 12, including approximately 200 women and 200 children under 12, with more than 10,000 civilians injured. A US-based human rights organization reported that at least 1,825 people have died, including 1,276 civilians.
US President Donald Trump commented that the military campaign against Iran is progressing swiftly and effectively, labeling Iran as a “nation of terror and hate” that is currently facing significant consequences.

Overview of the Conflict

The conflict in West Asia ignited on February 28 when Israel and the United States initiated a joint operation aimed at diminishing the capabilities of the Iranian government.

In retaliation, Tehran launched strikes against Israeli and US military installations in the region, targeting major cities in other Gulf nations and several maritime vessels.

The coordinated attacks by Israel and the US were prompted by ongoing tensions regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions, with Washington serving as a security guarantor for Israel. Israel has expressed concerns that Iran is nearing the development of a nuclear weapon, which could disrupt the regional security landscape.

Tehran has consistently asserted that its nuclear endeavors are intended for peaceful purposes.