Iran Accuses EU of Hypocrisy on Hormuz

Teheran: Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei on Friday sharply criticized the European Union’s stance on transit rules in the Strait of Hormuz, accusing the bloc of double standards and hypocrisy on international law.

Responding to remarks by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas, Baghaei said Europe was selectively invoking international law while ignoring the actions of the United States and Israel. He argued that Iran, as a coastal state, had the right to take necessary measures in the strait, especially if the strait was used for military purposes against Iran.

Baghaei also rejected the concept of unrestricted passage, saying such conditions were no longer valid due to rising military tensions in the region.

However, Kallas emphasized that international law requires that important waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz remain open and open to navigation. He warned that any move to impose transit fees could set a dangerous global precedent and called on Iran to abandon such plans.

He said Europe was ready to help restore normal shipping flows once hostilities eased, and that EU maritime missions could be expanded to protect sea routes.

The exchange follows Iran’s indication that it will prioritize ships that comply with new protocols, including security and payment for security services, citing limited transit capacity.

Meanwhile, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced that the strait will remain closed until the naval blockade on Iranian ships and ports is lifted. The force warned ships not to approach the area and said violations would be considered cooperation with hostile actors.

The developments come amid rising tensions linked to the fragile ceasefire involving the United States and Israel; Donald Trump stated that Iran is no longer in a position to pressure Washington.