KUALA LUMPUR, March 27 (Bernama) -- Iran reaffirmed that it will ensure maritime security for vessels from “non-hostile” nations transiting through the Strait of Hormuz while actively engaging with friendly countries to facilitate their safe passage.
The Iranian Embassy in Malaysia said Tehran acknowledged the broader global impacts of energy supply disruptions and security tensions in the Strait due to continuous United States (US)-Israel military aggression on Iran since Feb 28.
Countries, particularly in Southeast Asia, are already feeling the effects of increased oil prices and disruptions in supply chains triggered by perceived threats to this vital passage, the Embassy said in a statement on Friday.
The potential for long-term instability raises concerns about economic security and energy reliability in these regions.
It cited a recent phone conversation between Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian as part of diplomatic engagements to discuss collaborative efforts aimed at cushioning the energy crisis exacerbated by the ongoing conflict.
“Such diplomatic dialogues underscore Iran's commitment to maintaining peace and stability in maritime trade,” it said in a statement on Friday.
“We affirm that non-hostile vessels, particularly those from nations that do not support military aggressions against us, can navigate these waters safely, contingent on compliance with Iranian regulations and coordination with our authorities,” the embassy added.
It also warned that any US ground invasion of Iranian islands would create further regional security uncertainty that would disrupt global energy markets.
It said recent assessments indicate a shift in US objectives, now focusing on gaining access to the Strait of Hormuz, a goal that Iran maintains was already achieved prior to the conflict.
“As a responsible nation dedicated to the principles of the United Nations (UN) Charter, Iran recognises the importance of maritime security,” it said.
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime chokepoint where one-fifth of the world’s oil and a significant share of liquefied natural gas transit, has been effectively disrupted since early March due to ongoing military confrontation involving US-Israel and Iran.
The tensions have escalated into a wider regional conflict after Tehran struck Israeli targets and US bases and assets in Gulf countries in retaliation for sustained US-Israel military attacks on Iranian territories since Feb 28.
-- BERNAMA
