Iran Says Strait of Hormuz Open to Most Shipping, Restricts US and Israeli Vessels

Iran says the Strait of Hormuz remains open to international shipping but that vessels linked to the United States and Israel will not be allowed to pass through the strategic waterway.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the passage continues to operate despite rising tensions in the region following recent US strikes on military targets on Kharg Island, a key Iranian oil facility.

“As a matter of fact, the Strait of Hormuz is open,” Araghchi said in an interview with MS NOW, as quoted by the New York Post.

However, he added that Iran would restrict access for ships belonging to countries it considers hostile. “It is only closed to tankers and ships belonging to our enemies – those attacking us and their allies. Others are free to pass,” Araghchi said.

The foreign minister also noted that some shipping companies are choosing not to transit through the strait due to security concerns linked to the ongoing conflict.

“Many ships prefer not to undertake the journey because of security concerns,” he said, adding that the hesitation among shipping companies “has nothing to do with us.”

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy routes, carrying a significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports. Any disruption to traffic through the narrow waterway has the potential to affect global energy markets and international trade.