Iran will always maintain control of the Strait of Hormuz, but the country is ready to ensure safe navigation through this important maritime route responsibly, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi was quoted as saying in an article published by the Financial Times.

“The reality is that Iran, simply by virtue of geography, will always have unparalleled leverage over maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz," Araghchi stated. "More importantly, despite the hype about alternative routes, the waterway is irreplaceable for both the region and the world economy.”

“The good news is that Iran intends to honor its historic role as a guardian of the Strait and those who lawfully traverse it… There is a way forward, but it can only materialize once the US administration genuinely accepts that it has no military options," he added.