TEHRAN, March 22 (Xinhua) -- Iran's representative to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Ali Mousavi, has said that ships, except those from "enemies," can pass the Strait of Hormuz with prior coordination with Iranian authorities for security and safety arrangements, the semi-official Mehr news agency reported on Sunday.

He also stressed that international maritime commitments must be paired with respect for Iran's territorial integrity and sovereign rights.

Iran, he noted, is ready to cooperate with the IMO and other countries to enhance maritime safety and protect seafarers.

"Diplomacy remains Iran's priority. However, a complete cessation of aggression as well as mutual trust and confidence are more important," Mousavi said, adding that U.S. and Israeli attacks against Iran were at the "root of the current situation in the Persian Gulf region and the Strait of Hormuz." ■