Daijiworld Media Network - Tehran
Tehran, May 14: Calling India a “trusted and friendly partner,” Kazem Gharibabadi on Wednesday said Tehran is continuing efforts to facilitate the movement of India-linked vessels through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz despite the ongoing regional conflict.
During an interaction with a select group of journalists in New Delhi, the senior Iranian diplomat revealed that 11 Indian vessels have already been granted safe passage through the crucial maritime corridor, while discussions are underway to clear additional ships.
He emphasised that Iran’s decision reflects the strong ties between the two nations, noting that similar concessions are not being extended universally to all countries or vessels.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, 11 Indian ships have successfully crossed the Strait so far, while 13 others remain stranded in the Persian Gulf awaiting further approval from Iranian authorities.
Gharibabadi, who is closely associated with the ongoing diplomatic engagement between Iran and the United States, also disclosed that Tehran plans to introduce a new framework for vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Under the proposed system, ships may be subject to transit charges determined by several operational and regulatory factors.
At the same time, the Iranian minister clarified that any broader reopening of the Strait would depend on major policy shifts by the United States. He said Tehran expects Washington to lift economic blockades, release frozen Iranian assets, and demonstrate willingness for comprehensive negotiations covering all contentious matters, including Iran’s nuclear programme.
Speaking about recent Iran-US discussions, Gharibabadi said the talks revolved around three major subjects — Iran’s assurance regarding non-development of nuclear weapons, management of its enriched uranium stockpile, and issues related to uranium enrichment levels.
The United States has repeatedly alleged that Iran is nearing the capability to produce weapons-grade uranium, claiming that enrichment has already reached 60 per cent purity.
The Iranian official, however, maintained that Tehran remains open to dialogue on all matters but accused Washington of resisting genuine negotiations and insisting only on its own conditions.
Earlier in the day, Sibi George, Secretary (West) in the Ministry of External Affairs, held talks with Gharibabadi and the visiting Iranian delegation in New Delhi. The discussions focused on bilateral cooperation as well as recent regional developments.
Mohammad Fathali and other senior officials also attended the meeting.
Following the interaction, the MEA stated on X that the talks covered a range of bilateral and regional issues, including the evolving situation in the region.