Ports serve only civilians, shipping association denies US claims
Iran's national shipping association has rejected US allegations regarding the military use of commercial ports, stating that the logistics industry operates strictly in accordance with international maritime regulations to serve civilians.
The Shipping Association of Iran (SAOI) on Thursday denied claims made by US Central Command (CENTCOM) that Iranian naval vessels were hiding in commercial ports. The association asserted that Iran's logistics and maritime activities are focused on civilian services and aim to maintain the sustainable flow of goods transport.
"We consider any military use of this industry to be in violation of international laws," the statement added.
Separately, Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi, the senior spokesman for the Iranian Armed Forces, dismissed the CENTCOM allegations in a television interview as "false and unrealistic."
Shekarchi emphasized that none of the country's military vessels are present in commercial or economic ports.
He also warned that Iran is fully prepared to deliver a "decisive reciprocal response within the framework of legitimate defense" should any operational threat be posed against Iranian ports.
Tensions have escalated into open war since Feb. 28, when the US and the Zionist regime launched widespread strikes on Tehran, killing several senior officials.