Iranian First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref has said that the “security of the Strait of Hormuz is not free”.

“One cannot restrict Iran’s oil exports while expecting free security for others,” Aref said in a post on X.

“The choice is clear: either a free oil market for all, or the risk of significant costs for everyone,” he added.

“Stability in global fuel prices depends on a guaranteed and lasting end to the economic and military pressure against Iran and its allies.”