Tehran: Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said the country’s nuclear doctrine is unlikely to change despite the ongoing conflict, while proposing a new regional framework to govern shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. His remarks come as tensions remain high following the US-Israel war on Iran and disruptions to a key global energy route.
Speaking to Al Jazeera, Araghchi said Iran continues to oppose the development of nuclear weapons, noting that previous policy was shaped by a religious decree issued by former supreme leader Ali Khamenei. He added that the position of Iran’s new leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, on the issue has not yet been publicly clarified.
Nuclear stance remains consistent
Araghchi said Iran’s nuclear policy remains rooted in earlier religious guidance, though he acknowledged that such rulings depend on the interpretation of the current leadership. Western countries, including the United States and Israel, have long accused Iran of pursuing nuclear weapons, while Tehran maintains its programme is for civilian purposes.
Proposal for new Hormuz framework
The foreign minister said regional countries should develop a new protocol for the Strait of Hormuz after the conflict ends, aimed at regulating safe passage through the strategic waterway under agreed conditions.
The strait, through which a significant share of global oil and liquefied gas flows, has been heavily affected by the conflict. Iranian authorities have restricted passage, warning that energy shipments linked to the United States and its allies would not be allowed.
Iranian officials have also indicated that conditions in the strait are unlikely to return to pre-war norms, reflecting broader changes in regional security dynamics.
Ongoing tensions and maritime security
The United States has sought to form a naval coalition to protect shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz, though several NATO allies have shown reluctance to participate in military operations against Iran. France has said any joint effort would depend on a ceasefire and prior negotiations.
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Araghchi said a lasting resolution would require a complete end to the conflict and compensation for damages suffered by Iran.
Strikes and regional impact
Addressing reports of strikes affecting urban areas in Gulf countries, Araghchi said Iranian operations targeted locations where US forces were present, including sites near populated areas. He acknowledged that some regional countries had been affected but said responsibility lay with the United States for initiating the conflict.
The situation remains volatile, with continued military activity and diplomatic efforts shaping developments across the region.
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