Iran Urges Regional Nations to Expel US Forces
Istanbul – Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated on Saturday (14 March) that the United States is requesting assistance from regional nations to secure the Strait of Hormuz, arguing that Washington’s regional security umbrella has failed to prevent conflict.
Araghchi wrote on the social media platform X that the US security framework in the region is “proven to be full of loopholes and instead invites problems rather than preventing them.”
He alleged that Washington is “pleading with other nations, even China, to help it secure Hormuz,” referring to the vital shipping lane through which the majority of global oil passes.
Araghchi urged neighbouring countries to expel “foreign aggressors,” stating that their only concern should be Israel.
Iran has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz since approximately 1 March, amid escalating hostilities with the United States and Israel. Disruptions to shipments through the strait have driven increases in global oil and fertiliser prices, raising concerns about energy supplies.
US President Donald Trump stated on Saturday that nations receiving oil through the strategic waterway should be responsible for securing the vital maritime route, with the US offering assistance. He previously indicated that US Navy escort operations for oil tankers transiting the strait could begin “shortly.”
In an interview with American television station MS Now TV, Araghchi said the waterway is “open” to vessels that are not owned by the US, Israel, or their allies. “Other ships are free to pass,” he added.
Regional tensions have escalated since the US and Israel launched a combined strike against Iran on 28 February. That strike killed at least 1,300 people in Iran, including the then-supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Tehran has responded with drone and missile attacks targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf nations hosting US military assets, resulting in casualties and infrastructure damage whilst disrupting global markets and aviation.