Dhaka must coordinate with Tehran and follow its instructions to ensure the safe passage of Bangladeshi vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian Ambassador to Bangladesh Jalil Rahimi Jahanabadi said today.
Speaking at a press conference at the Iranian Embassy in Dhaka, he said no country could safely transport energy supplies through the strategic waterway without coordinating with Iranian authorities.
"To pass through, you have to follow the directions set by Iran," he said, adding that he was working to ensure the safe passage of energy shipments bound for Bangladesh.
Asked whether any Bangladeshi vessels had already crossed the strait, the ambassador said the information was confidential and available only to the relevant officials.
On the reopening of the waterway, he said Iran, Qatar and Oman had plans in hand, but lifting the US naval blockade against Iran and securing a commitment against further attacks were key conditions.
Jalil also said Iran would support Rohingya Muslims if they took a stand against the United States and Israel.
Expressing scepticism about the prospects for negotiations with Washington, he predicted a third round of war, saying Iran was prepared for any conflict.
He also warned that Iran would respond proportionately against the United States and Israel if subjected to a nuclear attack.