Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Argchi has issued a strong warning against the blockade imposed by the US on Iran’s ports. Argchi said the US action could further complicate the already simmering situation in the Persian Gulf and have “dangerous consequences”. He gave this statement while talking to his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on phone on Wednesday.
According to Iranian state media, Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), Argachi discussed regional developments with Wang, saying that US actions in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf have become a serious challenge for Iran.
“Our Foreign Minister, referring to the latest developments in the region after the ceasefire, warned on the dangerous consequences of America’s provocative policies and actions. This will further complicate the situation,” he said.
Argchi criticized the US position in the UN Security Council, saying the proposed US resolution on the Strait of Hormuz was “irrational and unilateral”. He acknowledged the opposition of China and Russia, who opposed the resolution, and said that the role of these countries prevented an escalation of tensions.
Wang Yi praised Iran’s “resilience and confidence” and reiterated that China is willing to help diplomatic efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region.
In a separate call, Aragachi also discussed regional developments and bilateral relations with Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi. The two leaders discussed the impacts on maritime traffic of recent military actions by the United States and Israel.
Argachi said that insecurity in the Strait of Hormuz is a direct result of the war imposed on Iran by the US and Israel and called on all countries to take a responsible approach to prevent the situation from becoming further complicated.
Toshimitsu Motegi expressed concern over the situation and offered Japan’s assistance in reducing tensions and ensuring stability in the region.
All this came as US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced on Wednesday that it had imposed a comprehensive blockade of Iran’s ports, and US forces have established maritime dominance over key regional waterways, including the Strait of Hormuz. Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of CENTCOM, said that within 36 hours of the start of the operation, US forces had effectively halted all maritime trade to Iran.
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