Iran warns bypassing Hormuz shipping route will escalate tensions

Tehran urges all parties to adhere to the existing memorandum on navigation as diplomatic efforts continue despite fresh exchanges with the United States

Iran has warned that any attempt to bypass shipping arrangements agreed under the existing framework for the Strait of Hormuz would increase tensions in West Asia, even as diplomatic efforts continue to prevent a broader military confrontation with the United States.

Speaking during a visit to Baghdad, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said any new or separate arrangements outside those pursued by the Islamic Republic would delay the reopening of the strategic waterway and further destabilise the region.

“I urge all parties to adhere to the memorandum of understanding and not to allow this MoU to deviate from its course,” Araghchi said, adding that attempts to circumvent the agreed framework would only create more complications.

The warning came after reports that Washington and Tehran had agreed to suspend military strikes and resume negotiations in Doha on Tuesday. According to a senior U.S. official quoted by Axios, both sides will allow vessels to move freely while technical discussions continue over the implementation of the agreement.

However, Tehran has indicated that progress depends on Washington meeting its commitments. Iranian officials said they did not participate in scheduled technical talks because of recent attacks and unresolved issues, including access to frozen Iranian assets.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically significant maritime chokepoints, linking Gulf oil producers to international markets. Around one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports pass through the narrow waterway.

The recent exchange of strikes between the United States and Iran disrupted commercial shipping and pushed oil prices higher amid fears that prolonged instability could threaten global energy supplies.

Regional governments and international observers continue to monitor the situation closely as negotiations resume. While the agreement to suspend strikes has eased immediate concerns, analysts say the success of the Doha talks will determine whether the fragile understanding can evolve into a lasting reduction in tensions.