Iran assures support to free six Bangladeshi ships stranded in Hormuz

Tehran has pledged full cooperation to ensure the safe return of six Bangladeshi vessels currently trapped in the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian Ambassador to Dhaka Jalil Rahimi Jahanabadi said Wednesday (April 1).

Speaking at a press briefing at the Iranian Embassy, he confirmed that Iran’s National Security Council has approved assistance for the ships, though detailed identification was delayed until last week.

The ambassador emphasised that Bangladesh’s shipping operations would face no obstacles and that Tehran is committed to providing maximum support. He also addressed the country’s fuel shortage, noting that images of long queues at petrol pumps had been sent to Iranian authorities, requesting assistance to avoid disruption.

Rahimi added that post-conflict, the “Innocent Passage” rules in Hormuz would require prior Iranian approval for any vessel, asserting that Tehran aims to establish full control and oversight over the waterway.

On broader consular matters, he highlighted that over 180 Bangladeshis stranded in Iran have been safely repatriated, many entering without visas or passports, with minimal fines and without harassment, coordinated with the Bangladeshi Ministry of Foreign Affairs and local authorities.

He further indicated Iran’s stance on the conflict, saying Tehran does not seek war but aims for a resolution that ensures regional stability and safeguards the rights of its people.

Regarding the US’s 15-point proposal, he noted no discussions had taken place, and Iran has not responded, stressing that the country seeks peace through negotiation, not conflict.