Iranian FM Blames US for Strait of Hormuz Closure in Call with French Counterpart

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi attributed responsibility to the United States for the consequences of closing the Strait of Hormuz, describing the situation as a result of Washington violating its commitments under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding.

This statement was made during a telephone conversation with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot, in which they discussed recent developments concerning bilateral relations as well as regional and international issues, according to the Iranian Foreign Ministry.

Araqchi pointed out that the continuation of unilateral measures and tensions imposed by the United States threatens the course of diplomacy and stability in the region.

He added that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz is a direct outcome of the United States reneging on its obligations under the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, emphasizing that the responsibility for the repercussions lies with the party that, in his words, "withdrew from agreements and persisted in its unilateral approach."

Furthermore, the Iranian minister addressed what he described as "unusual and diplomatically inappropriate behavior" by two French diplomats in Tehran, deeming such conduct unacceptable and urging the French government to take necessary measures to prevent recurrence.

Araqchi stressed the importance of foreign diplomatic missions adhering to the laws and regulations of host countries and respecting recognized principles and rules in diplomatic relations.

In response, the French Foreign Ministry summoned the Iranian chargé d'affaires in Paris following allegations concerning the detention and treatment of two French embassy staff members in Tehran.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot stated yesterday that Iranian security forces had subjected two French embassy employees in Tehran to "detention and physical intimidation."

The French Foreign Ministry issued a statement saying, "France expects the Iranian authorities, within their international obligations, to clarify the circumstances of this incident, punish those responsible, and ensure the security of French premises and personnel."

Barrot accused Iranian security forces on the social media platform X of violating the diplomatic immunity of the two employees through "severe intimidation," explaining that they were "detained and interrogated for several hours without cause, and one of them was assaulted."

The French minister added that the employees have returned to the embassy and are scheduled to depart for France within the coming hours.

Additionally, it was reported that Erbil Airport in Iraq has temporarily suspended flight operations.