Iran Declares Strait of Hormuz Under Its Command Amid US-Led Security Talks

Kazem Gharibabadi, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs, responded to the US Central Command (CENTCOM) security meeting held with several regional countries in Bahrain by asserting that the Strait of Hormuz is “under Iran’s command,” not that of the US Central Command (CENTCOM).

On Thursday, July 2, Gharibabadi posted a message on social media stating that military meetings in Bahrain cannot establish legal order and security in the Persian Gulf. According to him, the framework for security in the region must be based on existing realities and principles of international law.

The Iranian deputy foreign minister further emphasized that regional security will be ensured when foreign interference ends, US forces withdraw from the area, and countries’ sovereignty is respected. He added that accepting the new geopolitical realities, rather than relying on the US military umbrella, can pave the way for lasting stability in the region.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategic energy transit points and has always played a pivotal role in Persian Gulf security dynamics. These recent statements come amid ongoing security and military developments in the Persian Gulf region, which continue to draw the attention of regional and international actors.