Iranian Foreign Minister: Tehran Determines Hormuz Passage Mechanism; Washington Violated Accord

Iranian Foreign Minister, Abbas Araqchi, affirmed Article Five of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding the Strait of Hormuz is explicit, stipulating Iran's sole authority in determining the mechanism for passage. Araqchi stated the United States' opening of a separate route violates MoU provisions, stressing Washington should have consulted Tehran on adding or removing any Hormuz passage to align with Article Five. He added past clashes in the Strait of Hormuz led both sides, during Switzerland talks, to agree on establishing a direct communication line to prevent misunderstandings. However, Tehran later realized the issue transcended simple misinterpretations. Araqchi clarified Iran understood the other party insisted on creating alternative routes. He accused Washington of deliberately escalating the situation, violating the agreement, and consequently bringing circumstances to their current complex state.