Iran Says Strait of Hormuz Open, Warns of Escalation if Attacked

March, 2026 : Iran’s Foreign Ministry has asserted that the Strait of Hormuz remains open and navigable, despite heightened tensions in the region due to ongoing military conflict involving the United States and Israel. The ministry emphasized that while wartime conditions have necessitated additional security measures, maritime traffic continues under regulated conditions.

In an official statement, Iran reiterated its long-standing commitment to ensuring freedom of navigation and maritime safety. However, it acknowledged that recent US and Israeli military actions have created a volatile environment in the Gulf, directly affecting the safety and stability of shipping routes.

Invoking its right to self-defence, Iran stated that it has targeted US military bases and assets in the region in response to what it described as “aggression.” At the same time, Tehran has implemented measures to prevent vessels linked to hostile nations or those supporting military actions against Iran from passing through the strait.

The ministry clarified that ships not affiliated with adversarial actions can continue to transit the Strait of Hormuz safely, provided they coordinate with Iranian authorities and comply with security protocols. This approach, it said, reflects Iran’s attempt to balance national security concerns with international maritime obligations.

Iran also stressed that lasting peace and stability in the Strait of Hormuz depend on the cessation of military actions against it. It called for an end to what it termed destabilising policies by the United States and Israel, urging respect for its sovereignty and national interests.

The situation has escalated significantly since late February, when joint US-Israeli strikes targeted Tehran and other Iranian cities. The attacks reportedly resulted in the deaths of several senior military officials and civilians, prompting Iran to retaliate with missile and drone strikes on Israeli territory and US installations across the Middle East.

In a further warning, Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters stated that energy infrastructure in countries hosting US bases could become legitimate targets if Iran’s own facilities are attacked. This came in response to threats from US President Donald Trump, who warned of potential strikes on Iran’s power plants if the Strait of Hormuz is not fully reopened without restrictions.

Iranian authorities maintained that the strait is currently under “controlled management,” allowing non-hostile vessels to pass while safeguarding national interests. However, they cautioned that any direct attack on Iran’s infrastructure could lead to severe retaliatory measures, including the complete closure of the strategic waterway.

Such a move would have far-reaching consequences for global energy markets, as the Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes. Iran concluded by affirming its readiness to take all necessary steps to defend its sovereignty, while warning that continued escalation could destabilize not only the region but also the global economy.

(The content of this article is sourced from a news agency and has not been edited by the Mavericknews30 team.)