Iran's Foreign Minister told the media that the Strait of Hormuz remains "open" but will be closed only to Iran's "enemies." All other vessels are allowed to pass through.
On 14 Mar 2026 GMT+7, Abbas Araghchi, Iran's Minister of Foreign Affairs, gave an interview to the U.S.-based MS Now news agency, discussing several issues related to the ongoing war between Iran, the U.S., and Israel.
When asked about reports that Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, was injured, Araghchi responded, "Soon they will see for themselves that the new Supreme Leader has no problems. He is fulfilling his duties... and will continue to do so."
Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Araghchi said that this vital oil shipping route remains "open," but it will be "closed" exclusively to oil tankers and vessels belonging to Iran's "enemies." All other ships can pass as normal.
Since the war between the U.S.-Israel alliance and Iran erupted on 28 Feb 2026 GMT+7, Iran has attacked at least 17 ships operating in and around the Strait of Hormuz, including the Thai cargo ship "Mayuri Naree." Meanwhile, Mojtaba Khamenei recently declared his determination to keep this shipping route closed.
When asked about attacks on civilian buildings, Araghchi insisted that Iran targets only U.S. military bases and assets, which are "unfortunately located on the territory of our neighboring countries." He then accused the U.S. of attacking civilian targets in Iran, an allegation the U.S. has consistently denied since the war began.
Araghchi also spoke about Russia and China, stating that both countries are "strategic allies" of Iran.
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Source:bbc