Tehran: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi urged regional states to expel US forces, citing heightened tensions in the region. Araghchi highlighted the perceived failure of the US security framework in deterring conflict, particularly around the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

According to Anadolu Agency, Araghchi took to the US social media platform X to express his views, criticizing the US security approach as ineffective and even counterproductive. He claimed that the US is seeking assistance, including from China, to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil trade.

Araghchi called on neighboring countries to remove what he described as 'foreign aggressors,' suggesting their primary concern is Israel. Since March 1, Iran has significantly restricted access to the Strait of Hormuz, amid increasing hostilities with the US and Israel. This has led to disruptions in shipping and a rise in global oil and fertilizer prices, sparking worries over energy supply chains.

US President Donald Trump addressed the situation, stating that countries dependent on oil through the strait should take responsibility for securing the passage, with the US ready to assist. He mentioned that US Navy escorts for oil tankers could commence soon.

In an interview with American MS Now TV, Araghchi emphasized that the strait remains accessible to ships not associated with the US, Israel, or their allies, asserting that other nations are free to navigate the waterway.

Tensions in the region escalated following a joint US-Israel attack on Iran on February 28, which resulted in significant casualties, including the death of Iran's then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. In retaliation, Tehran launched drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries with US military presence, causing further casualties, infrastructure damage, and disruptions in global markets and aviation.