Iran Denounces US Port Blockade as ‘Unlawful’ and a Violation of UN Charter and Ceasefire Terms

Iran has strongly criticized the United States over its naval blockade of Iranian ports, describing the move as unlawful and a direct violation of international law. Officials in Tehran argue that the action breaches key principles outlined in the United Nations Charter and escalates regional tensions.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei stated on Sunday that the “so-called” blockade imposed by the US along Iran’s ports and coastline began last week and undermines a ceasefire announced by Pakistan on April 8. The ceasefire aimed to halt ongoing US-Israeli military actions against Iran.

Baghaei emphasized that the blockade contravenes fundamental UN provisions. “It violates Article 2(4) of the UN Charter; it constitutes an act of aggression under Article 3(c) of the UN General Assembly Resolution 3314 (1974), which explicitly includes the blockade of a state’s ports or coasts among such acts,” he said in a post on his X account.

Iranian authorities further argue that the blockade amounts to a war crime and a crime against humanity, claiming it is “deliberately inflicting collective punishment on the Iranian population” by restricting essential trade and economic activity.

The United States reportedly imposed the naval blockade following unsuccessful military objectives in its joint campaign with Israel, which began in late February. The move came after Iran placed restrictions on transit through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil route responsible for approximately 20% of the world’s oil supply.

Although Iran briefly relaxed restrictions on non-hostile commercial shipping in the strait on Friday to support diplomatic efforts, officials reinstated the measures shortly after, citing Washington’s refusal to lift its blockade on Iranian maritime trade.

The situation remains volatile as both sides continue to exchange accusations, raising concerns about further escalation and its impact on global energy markets.