Iran's top diplomat urges regional states to expel US forces amid tensions
Iran has called on regional governments to remove American military forces from their territories as tensions escalate following the ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Washington’s security framework in the Middle East has failed to prevent instability and has instead contributed to the growing crisis. In a post on the social media platform X, Araghchi argued that the US-led security umbrella in the region is “full of holes” and unable to deter conflict.
He also claimed the United States is now seeking help from other countries, including China, to secure the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route through which a significant portion of the world’s oil exports passes.
Iran has effectively restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz since early March amid rising hostilities. The disruption has already pushed global oil and fertiliser prices higher, sparking concerns among major energy-importing nations about supply shortages and market instability.
Araghchi said the waterway remains open to vessels from countries not aligned with Washington or Tel Aviv. According to him, ships linked to the US, Israel or their allies could face restrictions, while others would be allowed safe passage.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said nations benefiting from oil shipments through the strait should take greater responsibility for safeguarding the route. He also indicated that US naval escorts for commercial oil tankers could begin soon if necessary.
The latest diplomatic exchange comes after joint US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran on February 28 that killed more than 1,300 people, including former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
In response, Iran has launched drone and missile attacks targeting Israel as well as neighbouring countries such as Jordan and Iraq that host US military facilities, further heightening fears of a broader regional war.
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