WANA (Apr 17) – Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson has stated that the recent tweet by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi regarding the Strait of Hormuz was made in the context of implementing a ceasefire understanding and reciprocal commitments.

 

Esmaeil Baghaei, the spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, said on Friday evening, April 17, that the move was part of efforts to implement the ceasefire arrangement between Iran and the opposing side. He noted, however, that the agreement has not been fully honored by the other party, adding that Iran has taken appropriate reciprocal measures in response.

 

Referring to reported concerns over disruptions in maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, Baghaei said such issues stem from the other side’s failure to uphold its commitments.

 

He added that after the opposing party moved to fulfill its obligations regarding the Lebanon ceasefire, Iran in turn announced that transit through the Strait of Hormuz would proceed according to previously defined frameworks, including coordination with relevant authorities and movement along designated routes, while ensuring maritime safety.

 

The senior Iranian diplomat urged the public and media not to be influenced by what he described as “media manipulation,” stressing that the opposing side frequently changes its positions within short periods, which he characterized as part of a psychological and media campaign.

 

Baghaei reaffirmed Iran’s position as a coastal state overseeing the Strait of Hormuz, stating that the Islamic Republic considers itself a guardian of the strategic waterway and will not hesitate to take necessary measures to protect the nation’s interests and rights if required. He warned that further reciprocal actions would be taken in the event of continued non-compliance or escalation of maritime restrictions.

 

He also referred to the process leading to the ceasefire in Lebanon, noting that extensive efforts were made by various sides prior to its implementation. According to him, it was ultimately agreed that part of Iran’s commitments—previously announced on April 8—would be implemented, including the management of commercial shipping transit in coordination with Iranian authorities.

 

Meanwhile, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy issued a statement outlining a new operational order in the Strait of Hormuz.

 

According to the statement, civilian vessels are only permitted to transit via Iranian-designated routes, military vessels remain prohibited from passage, and all transit requires authorization from the IRGC Navy.

 

These measures, it said, are part of a “ceasefire de-escalation phase” following the implementation of the Lebanon truce.