Post-war transit through Hormuz only possible under Iran’s security protocols: Defense official

An Iranian deputy defense minister says the country would allow passage through the Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf after the conclusion of the US-Israeli aggression under protocols that protect Iran’s security.

Brigadier General Reza Talaei Nik told a meeting of defense ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, on Tuesday that Iran recognizes international concerns about the current restrictions it has imposed on passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Talayi Nik said, however, that the restrictions are a response to the US-Israeli attacks on the country, which began in late February and halted with a ceasefire on April 8.

The general said that Iran would allow commercial shipping through the Strait, a vital conduit for global oil and gas shipments, if the war of aggression stops permanently.

“Allowing the smooth transit of commercial ships will be on the agenda after the end of the war, provided that protocols that do not jeopardize Iran’s security are observed,” he said.

The comments come amid efforts in the Iranian government and parliament to introduce a new legal regime for transit in the Strait of Hormuz.

Authorities say under the new system, a total ban will be imposed on ships owned by or linked to the Israeli regime, while ships related to hostile countries and their affiliates will face restrictions.

Iran is also planning to introduce a toll payment system for passage through the Strait with the aim of compensating for the losses suffered because of years of economic sanctions imposed on the country by Western governments.

Current restrictions on passage through Hormuz have caused a major surge in international oil prices, increasing pressure on the United States and Europe.

Experts believe the West should reach a compromise with Iran to allow transit via the Strait to return to normal levels.