Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has announced that the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz is now open for commercial vessels, but cautioned that ships must strictly follow designated safe routes.
The waterway had effectively been blocked by Tehran following attacks by the United States and Israel on 28 February, disrupting one of the world’s most critical oil and gas transit corridors. Although a temporary ceasefire between Iran and the US is in place until 22 April, tensions remain high.
US President Donald Trump stated that a naval blockade of Iranian ports would continue until a formal peace agreement is reached, despite calling recent developments “a great and brilliant day for the world.”
Maritime authorities remain cautious. Industry groups say they are still assessing whether it is safe for ships to pass through the strait, with tracking data showing only minimal vessel movement so far.
Araghchi’s announcement came on the first full day of a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. He noted that commercial vessels could transit through the strait along routes coordinated by Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organisation.
However, Iranian state media later clarified that only civilian vessels would be allowed through designated lanes, while military ships remain banned. These routes were reportedly outlined by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and avoid identified high-risk zones.
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions within Iran. Some outlets criticized the statement as unclear, warning that passage could again be restricted if the US blockade continues. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf echoed this concern, stating that the strait would not remain open under ongoing pressure from US forces.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts are ongoing. Trump indicated that negotiations with Iran would continue over the weekend, though disagreements persist—particularly over Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile, which Tehran insists will not be transferred under any circumstances.
The situation carries major global implications. Roughly 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas typically flows through the Strait of Hormuz. The recent disruption has driven fuel prices higher, although oil prices dropped following Iran’s reopening announcement.
Despite this, uncertainty lingers. Arsenio Dominguez of the International Maritime Organization emphasized the need for clearer guarantees of safety and compliance with international law. Some ships may already be moving through the region, though verification remains difficult.
Security analysts also remain skeptical. Experts warn that risks such as naval mines and military escalation continue to pose serious threats to shipping in the coming weeks.
In response, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the United Kingdom and France plan to lead a multinational, defensive mission to safeguard commercial shipping routes once hostilities subside.
While the reopening offers a potential easing of global economic pressure, the fragile ceasefire and ongoing military tensions mean the situation remains highly volatile.