Iran strongly criticized the United States for implementing a blockade around its ports on Monday, labeling it a severe violation of its sovereignty amid escalating tensions between the two nations. Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, expressed in a letter to UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres that the maritime blockade was unlawful and breached Iran’s territorial integrity and international maritime laws.
The US President, Donald Trump, issued the order for the blockade on Sunday, prohibiting ships from entering or leaving Iranian ports and coastal regions in the Gulf. Trump also warned of the potential destruction of any Iranian attack boats challenging the blockade. Despite a recent two-week ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran, the blockade officially commenced at 1400 GMT on Monday, sparking concerns as diplomatic efforts persisted with the involvement of Pakistan and Qatar.
UN Secretary General Guterres urged all parties to uphold freedom of navigation in the vital Strait of Hormuz, which has emerged as a critical point of contention as both the US and Iran seek strategic advantages during ceasefire negotiations. Iran’s ambassador reiterated that the blockade not only endangered international peace and security but also heightened the risk of further escalation in an already volatile region.
In a separate communication, the UN envoy called on Middle Eastern nations hosting US military bases, such as Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan, to halt what he described as “internationally wrongful acts” and provide compensation for any damages incurred, both material and moral.
