Iran Denies Closing Strait of Hormuz – March 2026 Update

Iran Maintains Open Stance on Strait of Hormuz Amidst Regional Tensions

Jakarta – Iran has affirmed its commitment to keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for international navigation, despite ongoing regional instability. Ambassador Mohammad Boroujerdi, Iran’s envoy to Indonesia, stated definitively that the vital waterway remains accessible, even during periods of conflict. “The Strait of Hormuz is not closed, the Strait of Hormuz remains open,” Boroujerdi told reporters in Jakarta on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

Protocol Adherence During Conflict

Boroujerdi explained that Iran, as the responsible authority for the Strait, is only enforcing standard maritime protocols during the current period of heightened tension. “For us, there is no negotiation with a country waging hostility against us, namely the US,” he added, underscoring the complexities of potential diplomatic efforts. He emphasized that vessels adhering to these protocols can safely transit the Strait.

Doubts Over US Commitment to Agreements

The Ambassador’s comments come after Indonesia offered to mediate between Iran and the United States following recent joint US-Israeli strikes on Tehran. While Iran appreciates President Prabowo Subianto’s mediation offer, Boroujerdi expressed skepticism about the likelihood of successful negotiations. His primary concern centers on the reliability of any agreement reached with the United States. “Due to the fact that is there a guarantee for the US to abide by what has been agreed on?” he questioned.

Call for Unified Muslim Response

Iran has called upon Muslim nations to strongly condemn recent actions and to actively support the situation through the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the United Nations. Boroujerdi also advocated for a “joint campaign against wars” within the Muslim world, and expressed openness to discussions with the Indonesian government regarding the evolving situation.

Indonesia’s Role in Regional Peace

Ambassador Boroujerdi has previously highlighted Indonesia’s crucial role in fostering global peace through dialogue and regional cooperation. He believes that collaboration between Iran and Indonesia is key to stability in Western Asia and Southeast Asia.

Skepticism Towards Existing Peace Processes

Regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Boroujerdi voiced doubts about the effectiveness of current peace initiatives, citing over 75 years of unsuccessful agreements. He supports allowing Palestinians to determine their own political future through democratic means, rather than externally imposed solutions.

Selat Hormuz Security for All

Boroujerdi reiterated that the security of the Strait of Hormuz should benefit all nations, including Iran itself. He suggested that concerns about the Strait’s closure should be directed towards the United States, citing its presence as a destabilizing factor in the region. “The security of the Strait of Hormuz is for all countries, where Iran is also included, or there should be no country that benefits from the security there,” he stated.

FAQ

• Is the Strait of Hormuz currently closed? No, Iran maintains that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for international shipping.
• What is Iran’s position on negotiations with the US? Iran is currently not open to negotiations with the US, citing concerns about the US’s commitment to upholding agreements.
• What role is Indonesia playing? Indonesia has offered to mediate between Iran and the US.
• What is Iran asking of Muslim nations? Iran is urging Muslim nations to condemn recent actions and provide support through the OIC, and UN.

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Did you realize? The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategically important chokepoints, responsible for approximately 20% of global oil supply.

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