Iran Says Strait of Hormuz Closed Only to “Enemies”

The Strait of Hormuz remains open to vessels from friendly countries and is restricted only to nations considered hostile, Abbas Araghchi has said.

Speaking on the sidelines of the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Araghchi said Iran does not regard the strait as fully closed.

“From our point of view, the Strait of Hormuz is not closed, particularly not to friendly nations. It is closed only to our enemies,” he said.

The Iranian foreign minister also suggested that restrictions imposed by the Iranian navy could be lifted if the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran comes to an end.

“Then we will ensure that safe passage is guaranteed for every single ship,” he said.

Iran’s armed forces assumed control of the waterway shortly after the war began in late February. Since then, threats, inspections and attacks on vessels have significantly disrupted shipping traffic through the narrow channel, which is one of the world’s most important routes for oil and gas exports.

The disruption has contributed to higher global energy and fuel prices. Iranian authorities have also acknowledged that mines have been placed in the area.

Although Tehran maintains that the strait remains open, shipping companies are required to coordinate with Iranian authorities and use a designated corridor near Iran’s coastline. International legal experts argue that the transit fees reportedly charged for passage violate established maritime rights.

The United States, for its part, imposed a naval blockade on Iran in mid-April as part of efforts to limit the country’s oil revenues.

Madonna, Shakira, and BTS slated to perform at the 2026 World Cup Final half-time show

Please follow and like us:

100k