Iran’s declaration of a new security architecture in the Gulf sets a dangerous global precedent, according to Mark Kimmitt, former US assistant secretary of state for political-military Affairs.

“They have drawn lines, taking over, in their view, both Omani and UAE territorial waters”, Kimmitt told Al Jazeera. “They will also force concessions and payments from ships passing through. While large oil companies can probably afford this, it sets a horrible precedent worldwide. What is next? The Straits of Malacca turned into a toll booth? Gibraltar? The English Channel? I don’t think the world is going to stand for it.”

On whether Iran’s actions have drawn international support, Kimmitt said, “Find me a country, not just 25 experts, but a country, that is agreeing with Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz. No country, no international organisation, not the UN, has supported Iran’s closure of the strait.”

He noted that the UN Secretary General himself framed Iran’s actions on February 28th as a violation of the UN Charter, the same Secretary General who condemned Iran for blocking the Strait of Hormuz. “That is not a fringe position,” he said.

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