Iran Denies Closing Strait of Hormuz Amidst Rising Tensions

by Ahmed Ibrahim World Editor

Jakarta, Indonesia – Iran has no plans to close the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping lane, according to the country’s ambassador to Indonesia, Mohammad Boroujerdi. The statement, made Thursday, March 5, 2026, comes amid heightened tensions in the region following an Israeli strike on Tehran and concerns about potential disruptions to oil supplies. The assurance from the Iranian envoy seeks to quell anxieties surrounding the strategic waterway, which handles approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply.

“The Strait of Hormuz is not closed, the Strait of Hormuz remains open,” Boroujerdi stated when met at his residence on Jalan Madiun, Menteng, Central Jakarta, as reported by Kompas.com. He emphasized that Iran, as a responsible actor regarding the strait, is only implementing standard maritime protocols during a period of conflict.

Iran’s Role as a Guardian of the Strait

Boroujerdi underscored Iran’s long-standing role in safeguarding the Strait of Hormuz, stating that the country has maintained security in the area for centuries. He asserted that security within the strait is intended to benefit all nations, including Iran itself. “Security in the Strait of Hormuz is for all countries, where Iran is also included, or there should be no country taking advantage of the security there,” he said.

The ambassador’s comments directly address concerns about potential Iranian retaliation for the recent Israeli attack on Tehran. The attack, which occurred on Saturday, February 28, 2026, prompted Israel to close its airspace and declare a state of emergency, as The Guardian reported. Agence France-Presse reported two explosions were heard in Tehran following the strike.

US Involvement and Regional Tensions

Boroujerdi pointedly suggested that those worried about the closure of the Strait of Hormuz should direct their inquiries to the United States, criticizing Washington’s presence in the Middle East as disruptive to regional security. “Those who are worried about the closure of the Strait of Hormuz should ask the United States, which comes from very far away to the Middle East region, and then disturbs the security in the Strait of Hormuz,” he stated.

Reports from the Associated Press indicate that the Israeli strike targeted a location near the office of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Multiple US officials and sources familiar with the operation have indicated US involvement in the attack, which occurred as the US deployed a significant naval and air presence to the region in an effort to pressure Iran regarding its nuclear program.

Recent reports from Iranian news agencies Tasnim and Fars have confirmed the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, leading Iran to declare 40 days of mourning and seven days of national holiday. Details surrounding his death remain undisclosed.

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Economic Implications and Regional Response

The potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz has raised concerns about disruptions to global trade and energy markets. Indonesia’s Ministry of Trade is reportedly exploring alternative markets in Southeast Asia and Africa should the strait remain closed, according to Kompas.com. In Banda Aceh, reports indicate a surge in customers at gas stations amid fears of supply disruptions, leading to long queues.

The situation remains fluid, and international observers are closely monitoring developments in the region. Iran’s assertion that the Strait of Hormuz remains open offers a degree of reassurance, but the underlying tensions and the potential for escalation remain significant. The coming days will be critical in determining whether diplomatic efforts can de-escalate the situation and prevent further disruptions to global trade and security.

The Iranian embassy in Jakarta has not yet announced any further statements regarding the situation. Updates will be provided as they turn into available from official sources.

If you are feeling anxious or distressed about global events, resources are available to help. You can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741, or call the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).

The situation surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and the broader regional conflict remains dynamic. Further developments, including any official statements from the United States or Israel, will be closely watched in the coming days.

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