Foreign forces cannot bring security, cause more tension in region: Rouhani
Tehran (KNA) - Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says any presence of foreign forces in the Persian Gulf will only cause even more tension in the region, amid reports that the UK and the US are pushing for a joint force to escort oil tankers as they pass through the Strait of Hormuz off Iran.
"Iran makes constant efforts to ensure the Sea of Oman, the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz remain safe passageways for international shipping," he said during a meeting with visiting Omani Foreign Minister Yusuf bin Alawi in Tehran on Sunday.
"The presence of foreign forces wouldn't help the regional security, and if anything, it would actually be the main source of tension," he added.
The remarks come as both the UK and the US are leading two sharply different plans for patrols in the Persian Gulf.
Washington has been pushing for a scheme whereby nations protect their own ships but partake in joint operations to monitor the waterways to prevent incidents.
Source: PressTV