FAKE MEDIA – First Vice President of Iran, Mohammad Reza Arefwarned that security in the Strait of Hormuz cannot be guaranteed if Iran’s oil exports continue to be restricted by foreign parties. This statement was conveyed on Monday (20/4/2026) via the X social media platform.
Aref emphasized that restrictions on Iranian oil exports would have a direct impact on the stability of global energy trade routes. He considered it unfair if Iran was limited, while other parties still hoped for security in this strategic area.
“No one can restrict Iran’s oil exports while expecting free security for others,” Aref wrote. He added, “Security in the Strait of Hormuz is not free.”
Economic Choices and Global Stability
In his statement, Aref described global conditions as a choice between a completely free oil market or huge cost consequences for all parties involved. According to him, the stability of world energy prices depends heavily on the end of economic and military pressure on Iran and its allies.
He stressed that continued pressure policies would only exacerbate uncertainty in international energy markets, especially those related to the world oil distribution route through the Strait of Hormuz.
Tensions in the Middle East Region
This statement comes amid increasing tensions between Iran and the United States (US) and its allies. On February 28, Donald Trump Together with Israel, they launched an attack on Iran, which Tehran then responded with attacks on Israeli territory and several other locations in the area where US military bases are located.
The conflict reportedly killed more than 3,300 people before the two sides agreed to a two-week ceasefire on April 8, mediated by Pakistan.
Negotiations in Islamabad
Currently, the US and Iran are preparing to continue the second round of negotiations in Islamabad, Pakistan, on Tuesday (21/4/2026). The meeting was held after previous negotiations on April 11–12 did not result in an agreement.
However, the situation remains tense after the US imposed a naval blockade on Iran since April 13, which further complicated the diplomatic process between the two countries.
The Strait of Hormuz, which is a vital route for about a fifth of the world’s oil supplies, has once again become a major point of interest in the region’s geopolitical dynamics.
