Iran Declares Strait of Hormuz Open to All Except ‘Enemy-Linked’ Vessels Amid Rising Tensions

Iran has announced that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for global maritime traffic, except for ships connected to nations it considers adversaries. The statement was reported by Iranian media citing an official representative.

Ali Mousavi, Iran’s envoy to the International Maritime Organization, shared these remarks in an interview published by China’s Xinhua News Agency. His comments came before former U.S. President Donald Trump issued warnings about potential military action if the strait was not kept fully operational.

Due to escalating tensions during the conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, many vessels have avoided passing through the narrow waterway, which is a vital route for a significant portion of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies. This has heightened fears of a possible global energy disruption.

Mousavi, who also serves as Iran’s ambassador to the United Kingdom, stated that Iran would continue working with the International Maritime Organization to maintain maritime safety and safeguard seafarers in the region. He added that ships not linked to “enemy” nations could pass through the strait by coordinating with Iranian authorities.

“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 Israeli and U.S. attacks against Iran were at the “root of the current situation in the Strait of Hormuz”.

The situation remains tense as geopolitical developments continue, with experts warning that any sustained disruption in the strait could significantly impact global energy markets.