Iran’s U.N. Ambassador, Amir Saeid Iravani, stated on March 12, 2026, that Tehran will not close the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized that Iran has the right to protect the security of this vital shipping route, a key passage for global oil trade. Iravani’s remarks came after new Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei suggested using the Strait as leverage. Tensions in the region continue as nations monitor Iran’s statements and the implications for international maritime traffic.