Iran has warned that vessels trading with American companies cannot pass through the Strait of Hormuz, a claim the U.S. State Department says was not raised during diplomatic communications with Tehran.
A State Department official told reporters March 26 that the U.S. had not been informed of Iran’s position to restrict passage of vessels with U.S. investment ties through the strait.
The Iranian Ambassador confirmed on CBS Radio that oil and gas imported from the Persian Gulf comes from fields backed by American companies, making navigation through the strait impossible under Iran’s current stance. At a press conference, the ambassador added that sanctioning American and Israeli companies represents Iran’s right to self-defense, signaling that restrictions on vessels trading with the U.S. would follow.
On March 24, major international media reported that Iran had sent an official letter to the UN Security Council and the International Maritime Organization stating it would only allow passage for vessels from non-hostile countries. Ships from countries involved in aggression against Iran would not qualify, with the determination depending on the level of cooperation with the U.S.
The U.S. State Department said the situation involves ongoing developments, U.S.-Iran negotiations, and discussions within the UN and IMO, adding that efforts are underway to secure alternative energy supply lines through diplomatic consultations.