Baghaei: No change to occur in Hormuz Strait situation if U.S. provocations continue

Pars Today – Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson said that Iran is not holding negotiations with the United States and that talks with Oman are focused on the safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

According to Pars Today, citing Tasnim News Agency, Esmaeil Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said during his weekly press conference on Monday, regarding the finalization of an understanding with Oman and consultations with mediators for talks: “We are currently not negotiating with the United States. The talks with Oman are focused on reaching an understanding regarding the safe passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz.”

He added: “The Strait of Hormuz was not blocked because of differences between Iran and Oman; rather, it faced problems due to the U.S. aggression since March 1 of last year. As long as the maritime blockade and U.S. provocations continue, and all the violations committed by the United States persist, no particular change will occur regarding the situation in the Strait.”

Regional people oppose continued U.S. military presence

Regarding opposition among regional populations to the continued presence of U.S. forces, the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson said: “The people of the region know that the Iranian nation is peace-loving and seeks peaceful coexistence with all regional countries. They understand that everything that has happened, including Iran’s defensive response, was directed against the source of military aggression, not against the countries and peoples of the region.”

He added: “It is natural that they oppose the continuation of U.S. military presence in their countries and seek to prevent America’s exploitation.”

Israeli crimes continue

Reacting to the continuation of Israeli attacks in the region, Baghaei said: “The crimes of the Zionist regime continue; crimes in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon are ongoing. This is not only due to the nature of the Zionist regime itself, but also because of U.S. support for the regime.”

Regarding talks between Lebanon and Israel, Baghaei said: “In any process involving the Zionist regime, one can have a negative approach, because the regime has not adhered to any commitments or agreements.”