Iran Rejects US Blame for Strait of Hormuz Disruptions, Accuses Washington of Starting Unlawful War

TEHRAN — Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei on Sunday categorically rejected United States accusations blaming Tehran for recent disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, counter-accusing Washington of initiating an unlawful war and attempting to shift responsibility for global energy market instability.

In a statement released late Sunday, Baghaei addressed the escalating tensions surrounding the critical waterway, which serves as a chokepoint for roughly 20 percent of the world's oil supply. The US has pointed to Tehran regarding halted tankers and rising energy prices following a series of incidents that have paralyzed commercial shipping in the strait. Baghaei dismissed these claims as an effort by Washington to make the international community pay the bill for its own military actions.

"The United States started an unlawful war," Baghaei said, asserting that the disruptions were a direct consequence of American aggression rather than Iranian interference. He argued that Washington is now fabricating narratives to deflect blame for the economic fallout, including soaring fuel costs and the suspension of maritime traffic.

The crisis in the Strait of Hormuz has intensified over the past week as several tankers reported being unable to pass through the narrow passage. While US officials have cited Iranian naval maneuvers and potential sabotage as the primary cause of the blockage, Tehran maintains that its forces are acting defensively against what it describes as an unprovoked American offensive.

Baghaei emphasized that Iran has consistently called for dialogue and de-escalation, stating that the current situation is a manufactured crisis designed to isolate Tehran economically. "The world must not be misled by these false accusations," he added, urging international partners to recognize the root cause of the shipping halt as Washington's unilateral military engagement.

The dispute comes at a critical time for global energy markets, where uncertainty regarding supply chains has already driven prices higher. Analysts note that prolonged closure of the strait could trigger a severe economic shock, affecting nations reliant on Middle Eastern oil exports. However, neither side has provided definitive evidence to substantiate their respective claims regarding the specific mechanics of the initial disruption.

As diplomatic rhetoric hardens, the status of the detained or halted vessels remains unclear. It is currently unknown whether any third-party mediators have been engaged to facilitate a resolution or if military forces from other nations are being deployed to secure the waterway. The US has not yet issued a direct response to Baghaei's specific allegations regarding the origin of the conflict, leaving the question of accountability unresolved.

The situation in the Strait of Hormuz continues to evolve, with both Tehran and Washington maintaining firm positions that appear to preclude immediate de-escalation. International observers are watching closely to see if the standoff will lead to further military confrontation or a sudden diplomatic breakthrough.