New Delhi: Iran on Thursday said it has allowed ‘friendly nations’ like India, Pakistan, Iraq, China and Russia to use the Strait of Hormuz. This was announced by its foreign minister Abbas Araghchi.
Consulate General of Iran wrote on social media, “Iran FM Abbas Araghchi: We permitted passage through the Strait of Hormuz for friendly nations including China, Russia, India, Iraq, and Pakistan.”
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran threatens to create a global energy crisis with oil prices already soaring. Shortage of oil is being reported from several countries. As Strait of Hormuz turns out to be a point of contention between the US and Iran, it also found mention in Tehran’s demands to end the war. The demands were declared by Iran in response to Trump’s 15-point peace plan.
Tehran also wanted an international recognition and guarantees of Iran’s rights to exercise its sovereignty over the Strait. Trump had claimed that he and ‘Ayatollah’ would control the Hormuz together. This claim was snubbed by Iran.
The Ministry of Shipping on Tuesday assured that all Indian ships and sailors in the region were safe. Special Secretary in the Ministry of Shipping, Rajesh Sinha, said two Indian-flagged LPG carriers, Pine Gas and Jag Vasant, have already safely crossed the Strait.
