Russia’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Vassily Nebenzia, asserted that Iran retains the right to regulate and restrict navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, citing security considerations during times of conflict.
Addressing the issue on Monday, Nebenzia rejected attempts to place sole responsibility on Tehran, saying it was misleading to portray Iran as the aggressor. “There was an attempt to pin full responsibility on Iran, as if it was Iran which attacked its neighbours,” he said.
Defending Iran’s action in Hormuz, he maintained that under conditions of war, a coastal state facing threats has the authority to limit movement within its territorial waters to safeguard its security, Iran media reported.
The Russian envoy also accused Western nations of double standards, drawing a comparison with maritime conduct in other regions.
He criticised European countries for backing Ukrainian strikes on Russian trade vessels in the Black Sea, alleging that such actions undermine international norms.
“Unlike pirates who raise black flags with a skull and crossbones, Western countries are attempting to conceal their lawless actions under the guise of unilateral coercive measures,” Nebenzia said.
