Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh stated in an interview on April 9, 2026, that Iran will ensure safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. He noted that the strait had remained open for thousands of years until the start of hostilities with the United States. However, he warned that the strait would not be reopened unless the U.S. withdrew from what he described as acts of aggression, indirectly referring to Israel’s attacks in Lebanon.

Khatibzadeh emphasized that Iran would act in accordance with international norms and laws but asserted that the Strait of Hormuz is not part of international waters. He said that safe passage depends on the goodwill of Iran and Oman. When asked whether safe navigation meant no fees or threats to ships, he replied that Iran wants the strait to remain peaceful.

He added that safe navigation is a bilateral matter and that Iran would not tolerate the misuse of the Gulf by warships, signaling Tehran’s firm stance on regional maritime security.