Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister, Saeed Khatibzadeh, stated that Iran will ensure "safe passage" through the Strait of Hormuz, but only after the United States ceases its aggression. He added that safe passage depends on the "goodwill of Iran and Oman" and that the use of the Strait by warships will not be permitted. According to him, Hormuz has been open for centuries, until the start of the conflict with the United States.