Tehran Will Never Cede Control of Strait of Hormuz, Senior Iranian Politician Tells BBC
Two hours ago, a senior Iranian politician made a definitive statement to the BBC regarding the Strait of Hormuz, stating, “Never.” Ebrahim Azizi, a former commander in Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), asserted that Iran views control of the strait as “our inalienable right.”
Iran’s Unwavering Stance on the Strait of Hormuz
– Legislative Measures: Iran is preparing to solidify this stance through parliamentary legislation. Azizi indicated, “We are introducing a bill that encompasses environmental considerations, maritime safety, and national security, which the armed forces will implement.”
– Economic Risks: As global concerns rise over the potential closure of this strategic waterway, the situation is becoming clear: this is not merely a short-term crisis. Azizi emphasizes that Iran perceives its control over the Strait of Hormuz as “one of our assets to face the enemy” amid ongoing military conflicts.
Shift in Power Dynamics
– Strategic Leverage: According to Mohammad Eslami, a research fellow at the University of Tehran, Iran’s ability to control maritime traffic, especially oil and gas tankers, transcends current negotiations. “The first priority for Iran after the war is to restore deterrence, with the Strait of Hormuz as a principal strategic leverage,” he explains.
– Regional Tensions: However, neighboring countries are increasingly alarmed by Iran’s aggressive posture. Dr. Anwar Gargash, the diplomatic adviser to the UAE’s president, referred to Iranian actions as “an act of hostile piracy” and warned of the dangerous implications of Iran’s refusal to relinquish its control of international waters.
– Iran’s Counterclaims: Azizi retaliated, labeling those dissenters as “the pirates who sold our region to the Americans,” suggesting that external military presence has complicated regional dynamics.
Internal Discontent and International Negotiations
– Diverging Opinions: Within Iran’s political landscape, discrepancies have arisen regarding the management of the Strait of Hormuz. Azizi dismissed critiques of Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s optimism about the waterway’s accessibility, asserting, “When it comes to national security, there are no moderate or hardline approaches.”
– Upcoming Diplomatic Talks: The fate of the strait is also expected to be a focal point in high-level talks scheduled to resume in Islamabad. U.S. Vice-President JD Vance will lead negotiations, although Iran’s participation remains uncertain due to ongoing sanctions.
Concluding Thoughts on Control of the Strait of Hormuz
Azizi reiterated that while Iran is open to discussions about the Strait of Hormuz, control “is the bottom line.” His remarks reflect a broader sentiment in Tehran, where the strait is viewed not just as a critical maritime route, but as a vital component of national security.
As the region grapples with these complex tensions, it’s clear that the control of the Strait of Hormuz will continue to be a significant issue on both the local and international stages.