Washington, May 3: A controversy has erupted following remarks by former President Donald Trump, who described the seizure of Iranian vessels by the US Navy as “pirate-like” actions. Ismail Bakai, spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, condemned this statement as a “direct admission” of violating international law.
Bakai stated via the X platform that Trump openly labeled the illegal seizure of Iranian ships as “piracy,” boasting that the US operates like pirates. He emphasized that this was not a mere verbal slip but a serious acknowledgment of criminal actions against international maritime law.
He urged the United Nations, its member states, and the Secretary-General to firmly reject any attempts to normalize such blatant violations of international law.
This dispute arose during a rally in Florida, where Trump mentioned the US Navy’s actions, claiming that the US had seized a vessel and taken its oil and cargo, calling it “a very profitable business.”
Iran has previously characterized US actions as “armed robbery at sea” and an endorsement of piracy. Bakai recently reiterated that such actions contradict the fundamental principles of international law, free trade, and maritime security.
The situation escalates amid heightened tensions in the region. Following a US-Israel military operation on February 28, Iran tightened its control over the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz, while the US announced a blockade of Iranian ports in response.
According to US Central Command, several vessels have been redirected to enforce the blockade. The US defense leadership clarified that this action would apply to ships from all nations.
Iran has taken a firm stance, asserting that it will maintain its grip on the Strait of Hormuz until the US lifts its blockade.
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