Daijiworld Media Network - Tehran
Tehran, May 15: Iran has said that all commercial vessels can pass through the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz except ships linked to countries “at war” with Tehran, amid continuing tensions involving the United States and Israel.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran would allow passage for “non-hostile” vessels provided they coordinate with Iranian authorities and comply with security regulations.
The statement comes as maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most important oil and gas shipping routes — remains under close global scrutiny due to the ongoing US-Iran conflict and fears of supply disruptions. Around one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments pass through the narrow waterway.
Iran clarified that vessels linked to the United States, Israel and countries supporting military action against Tehran would not qualify for what it described as “innocent” or “non-hostile” passage.
According to reports, Tehran has informed the International Maritime Organization and the United Nations that it remains committed to maritime safety and is willing to coordinate the safe movement of ships through the strait.
Araghchi, speaking during a visit to India for the BRICS foreign ministers’ meeting, said Iran had “no trust” in the United States and warned that the situation in the Strait of Hormuz remained “very complicated.”
Iranian officials have maintained that the current tensions in the strait stem from military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran. Tehran has repeatedly insisted that diplomacy remains its priority despite the escalating conflict.
Recent reports indicated that Iran had permitted several vessels, including India-bound and Chinese-linked ships, to transit through the strait after coordination with Iranian authorities.
Shipping analysts said many commercial vessels continue to exercise caution due to security concerns, rising insurance costs and fears of military escalation in the Gulf region.