Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

Iran’s Foreign Minister Rebukes US Military Presence in Persian Gulf


(MENAFN) Iran's foreign minister launched a sharp rebuke Saturday against American naval operations in the Persian Gulf, accusing Washington of overreach by attempting to control Tehran's military exercises within its own territorial waters.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi took to X, the US social media platform, posting a map that emphasized the vast geographic separation between the two nations while spotlighting the Strait of Hormuz—a critical waterway situated along Iran's coastline.

"Operating off our shores, the US military is now attempting to dictate how our Powerful Armed Forces should conduct target practice in their own turf," he said.

Araghchi directed particular criticism toward US Central Command (CENTCOM), highlighting what he characterized as hypocrisy in demanding "professionalism" from Iranian forces while Washington and the EU simultaneously classify the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist entity.

"This is the level of absurdity the world is now facing," Araghchi wrote, adding that European governments have chosen to align themselves with such policies.

The diplomat defended the IRGC as a stabilizing presence in the waterway, asserting the force "has always been the protector of peace and stability in the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz."

"In our region, it is wisely known as a formidable force which has proven itself on the battlefield against both terrorists and invading militaries," he added.

Araghchi emphasized that unobstructed navigation and secure commercial shipping through the strait remain paramount to Iran and neighboring nations, contending that external military involvement undermines regional security rather than enhancing it.

"The presence of outside forces in our region has always caused the exact opposite of what is declared: promoting escalation instead of de-escalation," he stated.

The foreign minister's statements arrive as US military assets continue accumulating in the Persian Gulf region amid mounting bilateral friction. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly issued warnings toward Tehran, declaring Saturday that "the US has sent a large fleet toward Iran, larger than forces it has deployed in Venezuela."

On Thursday, Iranian officials announced plans to execute live-fire naval drills next week in the Strait of Hormuz, citing heightened tensions with Washington and apprehension over potential American military action.

The Strait of Hormuz serves as a vital chokepoint for global energy markets, with approximately 20% of worldwide oil supplies transiting through the narrow passage.

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