Iran defends stance on Hormuz measures
Tehran blames U.S. and warns of proportionate response
Iran's permanent mission to the UN said Tehran reserves the right to take "necessary and proportionate measures" in the Strait of Hormuz and blamed the United States for actions that it says have undermined maritime safety in the strategic waterway. The mission reiterated that Iran is not a party to the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and therefore does not consider its provisions binding, arguing that as the principal coastal state it can lawfully implement measures to counter security threats and prevent hostile exploitation of the strait.
Posting on X after addressing a UN Security Council meeting on maritime safety, the mission accused the US of unlawful acts including a maritime blockade, seizure of Iranian vessels and detention of crews, saying such measures violate international law, the UN Charter and amount to piracy. It also criticised US mine‑clearing and interdiction activities in the area and called for accountability for what it described as transgressions that endanger international navigation and regional stability.
Tehran framed its stance as defensive, asserting the right to protect safe passage and national interests while warning that continued US maritime policies will further escalate tensions.
