Iran has warned against any military presence by countries outside the region in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.
Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said the waterway should not become a stage for military demonstrations by foreign powers. He stressed that the security of the strait is the responsibility of countries located along its coastline.
His statement came after Britain and France expressed readiness to support freedom of navigation in the strategic passage amid rising tensions in the region.
In a message shared on social media platform X, Gharibabadi said Iran was closely monitoring all military movements in the area. He described Iran as a responsible regional power and a guarantor of security in the Strait of Hormuz.
He warned that countries creating instability in the region would be held responsible for the consequences of their actions. He also said any military adventurism by outside powers could further increase tensions in the Gulf.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said Washington had paused contacts with Tehran to allow Iran time to hold funeral ceremonies for its late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Speaking during celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of American independence at Mount Rushmore in South Dakota, Trump claimed Iran was eager to reach an agreement with the United States.
He said the United States had given Iran “a week off” from discussions out of respect for the funeral period. Trump added that Washington remained open to negotiations despite continuing disagreements between the two countries.
During his speech, Trump praised the strength of the US military and highlighted America’s role in major global conflicts and international humanitarian efforts.
He said the United States possessed the world’s strongest military force and described America as the oldest republic and one of the freest nations in the world.
Trump also raised concerns about what he described as the growing influence of communist ideology inside the United States. He called communism a serious threat to American values and freedoms.
The US president said America would never become a communist country and urged his supporters to remain politically active ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.
