Iranian Foreign Ministry Demands End to Maritime Piracy, Release of Assets
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TEHRAN, May 11 (Reuters) - Iran on Monday demanded an immediate end to maritime piracy and the release of frozen Iranian assets during a press conference held by Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei, while calling for guaranteed safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Baghaei outlined a series of security concerns facing the region, placing significant blame on American foreign policy positions that he described as unreasonable and heavily influenced by Israel.
Speaking at the Foreign Ministry in Tehran, Baghaei stated that the Iranian government requires a comprehensive security framework that ensures the safety of commercial shipping lanes across the Persian Gulf. The spokesman emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy chokepoint, must remain open and secure for international trade without interference.
Baghaei criticized the United States for maintaining a one-sided stance on regional security issues. He asserted that American positions are largely built and shaped by the Zionist regime, referring to Israel, and argued that this alignment prevents the resolution of ongoing tensions. The spokesman called for the lifting of sanctions and the unfreezing of Iranian financial assets held abroad, describing the current situation as an economic stranglehold that exacerbates regional instability.
The press conference addressed broader security concerns, including the need to combat piracy in international waters. Baghaei warned that continued maritime insecurity threatens global energy supplies and economic stability. He urged international partners to collaborate on establishing a neutral security mechanism that does not favor any single nation's strategic interests.
The United States has not yet issued an official response to Baghaei's statements. American officials have previously maintained that sanctions and asset freezes are necessary tools to address Iran's nuclear program and regional activities. Washington has consistently called for Iran to comply with international norms and cease support for proxy groups in the Middle East.
Tensions in the region remain high following a series of maritime incidents in recent months. The Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point of geopolitical friction, with both Iran and Western powers asserting their right to navigate and secure the waterway. The demand for safe passage reflects growing concerns among shipping companies and energy traders about the potential for disruption.
Baghaei's remarks come amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Persian Gulf. The Iranian Foreign Ministry has previously engaged in backchannel communications with European mediators, though no breakthrough has been announced. The call for the release of assets and an end to piracy adds new pressure to negotiations that have stalled over the past year.
It remains unclear whether the United States or its allies will respond to Iran's demands with new diplomatic initiatives or maintain their current policy framework. The situation continues to evolve as regional actors navigate complex security challenges and economic pressures.