Iran says it alone will manage Hormuz Strait navigation

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araqi told a press conference with Iraqi counterpart Fuad Hussein that full control and opening of the Strait of Hormuz lies solely with Iran. He said that after removing existing obstacles, Iran will ensure free maritime passage and warned that any foreign interference would delay a return to normalcy and increase regional tension.

Araqi also criticised a joint statement issued by the United States and the Gulf Cooperation Council on 25 June, describing it as aggressive, irresponsible and destabilising. He warned that the growing US military presence in the region is a burden for Gulf peoples and that local states will reassess their relations with US forces. Iran reiterated its support for the cease‑fire agreement mediated by Pakistan and for the peace memorandum signed with the United States earlier in June.