Tehran: Iran’s parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee has approved the broad outlines of a strategic action plan aimed at ensuring the security and sustainable development of the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf, amid escalating tensions with the United States.
The plan was approved unanimously during a committee meeting after proposals from relevant Iranian institutions were reviewed, committee spokesman Hassan Qashqai said. The bill had been submitted to parliament on July 13.
Meanwhile, Iran and Oman are holding discussions on establishing a temporary route to facilitate safe maritime navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi said the two countries were close to reaching an agreement.
However, Araghchi ruled out any direct negotiations with Washington at present. He said talks could resume only after the US stops what Iran considers violations of the previous understanding and provides compensation for its actions.
The situation has also drawn a warning from US President Donald Trump, who said Iran could face severe consequences if it does not reopen the strategic waterway soon.
Adding to concerns over the ongoing conflict, former US Defense Secretary Mark Esper said American stocks of Patriot and THAAD missile interceptors had been significantly depleted. He warned that replenishing the systems could take considerable time.
NBC News reported that the Pentagon has sought an additional $67 billion in defence funding to replenish weapons stocks. Senator Chris Murphy, however, said he would oppose the additional funding while the Iran conflict continues.
Patriot and THAAD are key US missile-defence systems designed to counter aircraft, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles.
