By Gloria Ogbonna
During a Sunday appearance on Meet the Press, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz strongly rejected Iran’s claim over the Strait of Hormuz, describing the vital passage as an international waterway and warning that Tehran’s assertions amount to a violation of international law.
Speaking on NBC, Waltz pointed to what he characterized as confusion within Iran’s leadership following recent military strikes that he said significantly weakened key figures within the regime. According to Waltz, conflicting statements from Iranian officials — including the foreign minister indicating the strait remained open while members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps suggested otherwise — reveal internal discord.
Waltz emphasized that decisions regarding maritime access and security in the region ultimately fall under the authority of the United States and its allies, noting that the U.S. Navy, under the direction of President Donald Trump as commander in chief, plays a central role in ensuring freedom of navigation. He argued that Iran does not have the authority to restrict or control passage through the Strait of Hormuz and cannot “hold the entire world’s economy hostage” amid tensions surrounding its nuclear program.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most strategically significant shipping lanes in the world, serving as a critical corridor for global oil and gas supplies. Waltz stressed that attempts by Iran to claim ownership or exclusive control over the strait represent a shift in its position and run counter to established international maritime law.
He further stated that Iran’s recent actions — including alleged attacks on ports, airports, roads, bridges, hotels, and even civilian neighborhoods using drones and missiles — have led to growing diplomatic isolation. Waltz claimed that a record 135 countries joined the United States and several Gulf Arab allies in condemning Iran’s behavior at the United Nations, signaling broad international opposition.
According to Waltz, Iran is also facing mounting economic pressure, with its currency and foreign reserves reportedly declining. He suggested that these financial strains, combined with diplomatic isolation, have left Tehran in a weakened negotiating position. “At the end of the day, they do not have the cards,” Waltz said, arguing that the regime is being compelled to return to the negotiating table in search of a deal.
Reiterating his central point, Waltz said the Strait of Hormuz remains an international waterway despite Iranian claims to the contrary. He maintained that any attempt by Tehran to redefine the strait as its sovereign waterway is inconsistent with international law and longstanding maritime norms. Ultimately, he concluded, the United States and its naval forces will continue to safeguard access and ensure stability in one of the world’s most crucial maritime chokepoints.
Source Breitbart
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