Iran Rejects Foreign Role in Hormuz Mine Clearance, Confirms Qatar Talks on Frozen Funds
Iran's Foreign Ministry has ruled out any need for foreign involvement in mine clearance operations in the Strait of Hormuz, reaffirming that the process is already covered by an existing memorandum of understanding (MoU).
Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said the clearance of mines in the strategic waterway is regulated under the relevant agreement and that Tehran sees no need for third-party intervention. His remarks come amid ongoing international attention over the security of one of the world's most important oil shipping routes.
Baghaei also confirmed that Iranian and Qatari officials will meet in Doha to discuss the implementation of the U.S.-Iran MoU, with a particular focus on the release of frozen Iranian funds held in Qatar. Tehran says the discussions will center on ensuring access to those assets under the terms of the agreement.
The announcement comes as indirect diplomatic efforts continue through Qatari mediators following the recent ceasefire framework between Washington and Tehran. While U.S. envoys are also in Doha, Iranian officials have stressed that no direct U.S.-Iran meetings are currently scheduled, describing their delegation's mission as focused solely on implementing the existing agreement.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global energy chokepoint, carrying a significant share of the world's oil exports. Any progress on maritime security and the release of frozen Iranian assets is expected to play a key role in sustaining the fragile diplomatic process.