Khamenei calls for Gulf unity as Hormuz tensions persist

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei has called on Gulf leaders to identify their true adversary and confront it, as tensions persist over the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. In a message published on Sunday to commemorate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad, Khamenei urged the rulers of Islamic nations to comprehend their enemy's plan and take action against it.

Khamenei's remarks come amid an ongoing standoff over the crucial waterway, which currently bans vessels from crossing without obtaining permission from Iran. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi stated on Saturday that Iran has reached an agreement with Oman regarding a temporary maritime route, but its implementation is contingent upon the United States fulfilling its commitments under a memorandum of understanding that expired in mid-June.

Gharibabadi emphasized that the strait remains closed and any vessel attempting to pass through would need to coordinate with Iran. He added that Iran will reciprocate once the US adheres to the commitments outlined in the memorandum. Diplomatic efforts to reopen the strait have been ongoing, with Qatar and Pakistan leading mediation discussions.

However, the volume of recorded transits through the strait has been minimal, with only seven commodity vessels crossing on Thursday, a significant drop from the previous day's 17 and well below the 10-day average of 15, according to data from Kpler.