Key facts
- Source
- Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei via IRIB
- Claim
- Ships attacked in Strait of Hormuz were carrying US weapons, not oil or LNG
- Alleged US action
- US warships turned off tracking systems and used commercial ships for military transport
- Cited agreement
- Point 5 of the Islamabad memorandum
- Incident described
- CENTCOM warship passed through unauthorized southern route behind LNG carrier
- US response
- Not yet reported
Background
Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei told IRIB that the ships attacked by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz were carrying weapons and ammunition for the United States, rather than oil or natural gas.
Baghaei said US warships were observed moving past large ships carrying oil or liquefied natural gas (LNG). He alleged that to avoid Iranian control, the US military turned off tracking systems and transported military forces, equipment, and weapons on commercial ships.
Current situation
Baghaei stated that such US actions contradict point 5 of the Islamabad memorandum. He described an incident where a US Central Command (CENTCOM) warship passed through a southern and unauthorized route, sheltering behind a large LNG carrier.
He called this 'not only a dangerous passage, but also a clear indication of the US’ intention to abuse the agreement on the cessation of war and create conditions for hostile actions against Iran.'
The spokesperson added that the US has intensified its attacks after Tehran's appeal, saying, 'That is, they [i.e. the US] have in fact completely violated all their obligations under the agreement.'
Impacts
The allegations could heighten tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil and LNG shipments. If confirmed, the presence of weapons on commercial ships could raise risks for civilian shipping and international trade.
The dispute may also affect regional security arrangements, as the Strait of Hormuz is a key transit route for energy supplies. Any escalation could impact shipping insurance rates and global energy prices.
The accusations against the US could further strain diplomatic relations between Tehran and Washington, potentially complicating any future negotiations on regional security or nuclear issues.
Future outlook
Scenario analysis: The possibilities below are not certain predictions.
If the US continues to use commercial vessels for military transport, Iran may respond with further interdictions or increased surveillance in the Strait of Hormuz, potentially leading to more confrontations.
Should the international community verify Iran's claims, it could prompt diplomatic actions or sanctions against the US, though such a scenario remains uncertain.
Alternatively, if the two sides engage in dialogue, the incident might be resolved through diplomatic channels, but no such talks have been announced.
Source: news.am
