Tehran: Iran's foreign minister on Saturday criticized the US military presence in the Persian Gulf, saying Washington is attempting to dictate how Tehran conducts military activity near its own borders. In a statement posted on the US social media company X, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi highlighted the geographic distance between the US and Iran by attaching a map image to his post, illustrating the distance between the two countries, with the Strait of Hormuz marked to underscore Iran's proximity to the strategic waterway.
According to Anadolu Agency, Araghchi expressed concerns over the US military's operations near Iranian shores, stating that the US is attempting to influence Iran's military practices on its own territory. He also criticized US Central Command (CENTCOM) for calling for 'professionalism' from Iran's military while Washington and the EU label the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization. Araghchi remarked that this represents a global absurdity, further criticizing European governments for aligning with such policies.
The foreign minister emphasized the IRGC's role as a 'protector of peace and stability in the Persian Gulf and Strait of Hormuz,' highlighting its reputation as a formidable force in the region. He stated that the IRGC has proven itself on the battlefield against both terrorists and invading forces. Araghchi argued that the freedom of navigation and safe passage of commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz are vital to Iran and its neighbors. He asserted that external forces in the region have historically led to increased tensions, contrary to their stated goal of de-escalation.
Araghchi's remarks come amid an ongoing US military buildup in the Persian Gulf region and heightened tensions with Iran. US President Donald Trump recently announced that the US has sent a large fleet toward Iran, larger than forces deployed in Venezuela. On Thursday, Iran declared its plans to conduct live-fire naval exercises next week in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating concerns over a potential US strike on the country. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical waterway, with approximately 20% of the world's oil supply passing through it.