Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Ismail Baghaei confirmed that the countries of the region are called upon to strengthen relations, trust and security among themselves without the interference of external players, stressing Tehran’s rejection of foreign interference in the affairs of the region. Regarding the agreement between Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, Baghaei said that there is no justification to consider it directed against Iran, in reference to Tehran’s position on recent regional movements and understandings. Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, Baghaei stressed that opening the strait is linked to the circumstances and conditions of Iran, saying: As long as the war continues, we will not allow passage through the strait, stressing that it will not be a safe passage in light of the continuation of the American policy and the naval blockade. He pointed out that the ongoing negotiations with the Sultanate of Oman are constructive and positive and aim to determine the navigation route in the Strait of Hormuz, pointing out that the two sides agreed on a transit map, while some technical points are still under discussion. Baghaei explained that the issue of mine clearance is being discussed between Iran and Oman as two countries bordering the Strait, stressing that Tehran is not discussing, at the current stage, the issue of imposing fees on passing ships. He also considered that the southern route in the Strait of Hormuz is “illegal, unsafe, and in violation of the memorandum of understanding,” at a time when Tehran and Muscat continue talks on arrangements related to navigation and transit in the region.