Iran to Establish Strait of Hormuz Hotline, Claims Tehran Will Manage Waterway

(CNA Tehran, June 23, 2024, Reuters) - Iran's chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, stated that Iran has agreed to establish a "hotline" regarding the Strait of Hormuz for use by U.S. and other countries' vessels to "avoid and resolve any misunderstandings."

According to CNN, Ghalibaf was interviewed by Iranian state media on his return to Iran after concluding negotiations in Switzerland. He said that Iran and the U.S. have "reached a consensus on establishing a coordination mechanism, including a hotline and a liaison center," where vessels can contact the center if there are any concerns or issues.

Ghalibaf emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz will be "managed according to Iran's arrangements" in the future and "will never return to its pre-war state."

He also pledged that Iran will "precisely implement international law" and promptly address any issues or misunderstandings.

"Of course, just as problems may arise in Lebanon or other regions, situations can also occur in the Strait of Hormuz. As you have seen, conflicts have even erupted on some nights."

He pointed out that the establishment of the hotline will help ensure "the highest degree of navigational safety and efficiency of vessel passage."

When asked about the specific use of the hotline, Ghalibaf responded, "If the U.S. side has an opinion on anything, or if any vessel needs to clarify its route or other matters, they can call this number."

Furthermore, Ghalibaf claimed that during the negotiations in Switzerland, Iran finalized arrangements to access $12 billion in frozen funds and details related to the lifting of oil sanctions.

According to AFP, U.S. Vice President JD Vance stated earlier today that after the first round of talks between the U.S. and Iran in Switzerland, Tehran has agreed to invite International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors for re-entry.

According to the agreement, Iran will also receive some sanctions relief from Washington, and some frozen assets will be unfrozen. (Compiled by Shi Shi) 06/23/2024

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