Iran assures Strait of Hormuz will remain open for trade, including to Southeast Asia

KUALA LUMPUR - Iran has reaffirmed its commitment to keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and secure for energy and trade shipments, including those destined for Southeast Asia.

Iranian Ambassador to Malaysia, Valiollah Mohammadi Nasrabadi said that despite the Iranian Parliament’s decision to suspend cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), there were no plans to disrupt the waterway.

"The Strait of Hormuz has always been open. There are no obstacles to the movement of ships through the strait.

“Our decision was to stop working with the IAEA, not from any action related to the Strait of Hormuz," he said during a press conference at the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Valiollah’s remarks came after the fear that the vital shipping route could be impacted by escalating tensions in the region, particularly following the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel.

The envoy explained that Iran’s suspension of cooperation with the IAEA stemmed from the IAEA’s failure to condemn attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, particularly after Israel targeted multiple sites.

"Their observers are in Tehran and report back to headquarters, but when Iran was attacked, they didn’t condemn it. So, what is the benefit for us?" he questioned.

Despite the conflict, Valiollah assured that Iran remains dedicated to maintaining stability in the Persian Gulf and surrounding areas.

"We always try to keep the Persian Gulf and this region quiet, under control and with the best security because it is a place for energy," he said.

Addressing whether Iran would ensure safe passage for shipments to Malaysia and other nations, the ambassador reiterated Iran’s focus on facilitating commerce.

"Iran always wants this area to be open for trade and of course, economic cooperation between our neighbouring countries and Iran with overseas or other countries in the world.

"This (closing the strait) is not on our agenda now. But if the situation becomes unbearable in the future we may reconsider," he said.

Valiollah also sought to reassure Malaysians that the conflict would not spill over into Southeast Asia, citing the close coordination between Iran and Malaysia.

He said that Malaysia has consistently upheld international law and Iran is grateful for its support.

"We, of course, coordinate with the Malaysian government on this situation," he said.

"Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim spoke with our president recently about how we can work together for peace and security in the region, especially in the Middle East and Persian Gulf region," he added.