Tensions in Strait of Hormuz caused by US-Israeli aggression: Iranian envoy

Iran’s ambassador to Britain and permanent representative to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has held the “unlawful and irresponsible” actions of the United States and Israel in the Strait of Hormuz responsible for the escalating tensions in the strategic waterway.

In a meeting with the IMO President Arcino Dominguez in London on Friday, Seyyed Ali Mousavi pointed to repeated US-Israeli acts of aggression against Iran, saying that the Islamic Republic is acting in self-defense under the United Nations Charter and within the framework of its inherent right, and will utilize all its military capabilities to defend its own sovereignty, security, and national interests.

The Iranian diplomat also referred to threats made by the US Central Command (CENTCOM) against Iranian ports and Maritime installations, stating that such intimidations are in line with the flagrant and recurrent violations of international law, which are now taking place in the field of shipping, port infrastructure, and non-military sea facilities.

“Not only are such threats in violation of the fundamentals of international law and established rules concerning maritime security, they can also have adverse results on international shipping and regional stability,” Mousavi stated.

Trump’s Strait of Hormuz rhetoric aims to control oil prices; Iran has ‘major surprises’: Source

Donald Trump’s threats to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and launch more attacks on Iran aim to control the soaring oil prices after the weekend closure in the US, a knowledgeable military source told Press TV.

He called on the international community, ranging from governments to global organizations, particularly IMO, to adopt a position on the blatant violation of international law, stop the authorization and continuation of such moves, cease the current situation, and stop the escalation of maritime insecurity.

For his part, the IMO president highlighted Iran’s important role in the organization and international shipping, underlining the significance of maintaining free shipping and safety of sailors.

Commenting on the ongoing US-Israeli aggression against Iran, Dominguez stated that all countries reserve the right to act in self-defense, emphasizing the need to ensure maritime security, and prevent the expansion of insecurity in international maritime routes, and potential threats to the lives of sailors.

Press TV’s website can also be accessed at the following alternate addresses:

www.presstv.ir