Iran has confirmed the existence of a communication channel with the United States in the Strait of Hormuz, stressing that the link is political rather than military and does not alter the country’s authority over one of the world’s most strategic waterways, according to presstv.ir.
Speaking anonymously to Press TV, a security source said the channel was created to reduce tensions and prevent misunderstandings in the busy shipping lane. The source rejected suggestions that the arrangement amounts to direct military coordination between the two countries.
“This is a political communication channel and does not include a direct line from the armed forces of the Islamic Republic,” the source said.
The clarification came a day after Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) spokesperson Hossein Mohebi denied reports claiming that Iran had established a military contact line with the United States.
The source also underlined that the new communication channel does not affect Iran’s position on navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. According to the official, all vessels must continue to use routes designated by Iran, and the country’s sovereign rights over the waterway remain unchanged.
The Strait of Hormuz carries nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supplies, making stability in the region critical to global energy markets.
The announcement follows renewed exchanges of fire between Iran and the United States on Friday and Saturday after commercial ships sailing outside routes recognized by Iran were attacked. Tehran has denied responsibility for those incidents.
The communication channel also comes after an interim agreement signed by the two countries on June 18, which included measures to support the safe passage of commercial vessels through Hormuz. The agreement further calls for discussions between Iran and Oman on the future administration of the strait and maritime services in accordance with international law and the rights of coastal states.
