Iran stresses Persian Gulf security ensured in cooperation of littoral states only

Amir-Abdollahian made the statement in a message on the occasion of the Persian Gulf Day, annually celebrated on April 29 or 30, which represents Iran’s anti-hegemonic stance and a dismissal of futile attempts by certain regional countries to rename the strategic body of water. It also coincides with the anniversary of the expulsion of the Portuguese Navy from the Strait of Hormuz in 1622.

“The Persian Gulf, as a unique transit route between Europe, Africa, South and Southeast Asia, and from a strategic point of view, is part of an important global connection system involving the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean,” Amir-Abdollahian said.

“The importance of the Persian Gulf from historical, civilizational, geographical, cultural and various economic, political, energy transportation and geopolitical aspects defies any explanation or repetition, which makes the importance of this body of water very remarkable around the world,” he added.

The top Iranian diplomat described security as a complex and multi-dimensional issue that can be defined through collective cooperation, strengthening ties and creating political, economic and social mechanisms.

“The security of the Persian Gulf will be ensured with the participation of all the coastal countries only, and to this end, exceptions or ignorance on the part of any of the countries are not accepted,” Amir-Abdollahian said.

Amir-Abdollahian also expressed Iran’s readiness to utilize its achievements to promote peace, stability, development and progress in the region.

The Persian Gulf — which spans some 251,000 square kilometers — is bounded by the Arvand River in the north, which forms the frontier between Iran and Iraq, and the Strait of Hormuz in the south, which links the Persian Gulf to the Sea of Oman and the Indian Ocean.

The strategic inland sea is an international trade route connecting the Middle East to Africa, India, and China.