News - Middle East: The commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Navy described the Strait of Hormuz as the “world’s vital oil and gas artery,” stressing that Iran has consistently ensured the security of this strategic waterway and never aimed to disrupt or close it.

Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri underscored on Friday the vital importance of the Strait of Hormuz in the global energy market and warned against the “unregulated” presence of extra-regional powers and their nuclear-powered vessels in this strategic waterway.

“This waterway is the oil and gas artery of the world, and Iran has always safeguarded it and never sought to have it closed,” Tangsiri stated, adding, “The question remains: is it fair that the world benefits from this strait while Iran does not?”

He explained that the decision to open or close the Strait of Hormuz lies with the country’s high-ranking officials and depends on the pressure on Iran’s exports.

“The decision on whether the strait remains open or closed ultimately rests with the country’s top leadership and depends on the extent of pressure exerted on Iran’s oil exports,” he noted.

Tangsiri also criticized the continued presence of certain foreign powers in the region, asserting that “such countries deliberately create tensions and adversaries to justify their presence.”

He reiterated that Iran’s defense policy is fundamentally defensive, not aggressive.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran has not attacked any country in over 300 years and will not seek conflict unless it is provoked. However, it will resolutely defend its interests,” he affirmed.

He further emphasized the vigilance and readiness of Iranian forces stationed in the Persian Gulf.

“Our soldiers in the region, both from the Army Navy and the IRGC Navy, will stand against any threat or action targeting national interests and will defend the nation’s dignity until their last breath,” he vowed.

Mentioning the 12-day unprovoked Israeli aggression against Iran, he stated that Iran “did not start the war, nor did we request its end; we continue to steadfastly defend the path we were on.”

“The enemies know that Iran is not seeking a nuclear bomb; their problem is with Iran’s independent existence and scientific progress, not with weapons,” he concluded.

Commemorating IRGC Navy Day on Wednesday, Major General Mohammad Pakpour, the IRGC commander-in-chief, also warned that any miscalculation or aggressive move by adversaries in the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz, or around Iran’s islands would be met with a swift, harsh, and regret-inducing response.

The Strait of Hormuz, home to the deepest point in the Persian Gulf, serves as a passage for more than 17 million barrels of oil per day, including a majority of exports from OPEC countries.

In recent years, Iran’s naval forces have achieved self-sufficiency in producing both surface and sub-surface vessels and have expanded their presence in international waters to secure maritime routes and protect commercial shipping. The Iranian Navy has also conducted numerous joint exercises with other countries to enhance combat readiness and operational coordination.

Furthermore, Iran’s naval forces have actively participated in international missions to combat piracy and maritime terrorism, exchange information on naval rescue and relief operations, and share tactical and operational expertise—all aimed at strengthening the safety and stability of global maritime trade.

Source: Press TV