Article Posted on : - Jan 10, 2012

WASHINGTON (PTI): Noting that it hasn't observed any development on the part of Iran to actively block the Strait of Hormuz, the Pentagon on Monday said that it is time for Tehran to ratchet down its rhetoric on this issue.

"We have seen a lot of rhetoric. We haven't seen active expression if intent. We would have some knowledge of intent of actively impede maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. We do not see any active steps being taken by the Iranians to close Strait," Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said.

"This is an important water way for the entire region and for Iran itself. The rhetoric has gone little heavy in recent days and it's time for it to go lighter," Little added.

The United States, he said has the mix of capabilities and relationships in the region to promote stability in the Gulf and naturally the Strait of Hormuz is a very important factor in the stability of the region.

"We really do want to try to ratchet it down to the tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. The important thing is that for the Strait of Hormuz to remain open for the sake of maritime freedom respected and for Iran to ratchet down its rhetoric," Little said.