Iranian Media: Iran Rejects Western Ultimatum-Style Rhetoric, Eyes New Order in the Strait of Hormuz

According to a report by Odaily, citing Iran's Mehr News Agency, Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Baghaei has explicitly rejected the ultimatum-style rhetoric directed at Iran by Western nations. He declared that the American naval blockade has been illegal from the start and confirmed that since March 1st, the Strait of Hormuz has been operating under Iran's special measures. Baghaei categorically rejected any use of the words "should" and "must" by the West towards Iran, stating that Iran makes its decisions based on the interests and rights of its own people. Discussing the American naval blockade, Baghaei's legal characterization was precise. He stated the blockade has been illegal from its inception, violating ceasefire agreements and disrupting freedom of navigation. Baghaei confirmed that since March 1st, the Strait of Hormuz has been operating under Iran's special measures, with commercial vessels requiring coordination with Iranian authorities for passage. He emphasized the role of the coastal states, Iran and Oman, in managing the future of the waterway, stating that both countries take a responsible stance in safeguarding security and national interests while providing guarantees to the international community regarding safe maritime navigation. He concluded by noting that the lessons learned under the recent special circumstances cannot be ignored, and that whatever mechanism is established between Iran and Oman will be designed to simultaneously serve the national security of both countries and the safety of international shipping. (Jin Shi)