Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, Iran has announced that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for certain nations, including India. In an interview with Iranian State TV, Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Foreign Minister, stated that the strait is not entirely closed and that ships from five friendly countries are allowed to pass through safely.
Araghchi confirmed that vessels from Russia, China, Pakistan, Iraq, and India have been granted permission to transit the strategic waterway. He explained that these nations, with whom Iran maintains friendly relations, have coordinated with Tehran to ensure safe passage. “Many shipowners and country representatives have contacted us requesting safe passage through the strait,” he said. “For some of these countries, we have decided to facilitate their passage based on our relations and strategic interests.”
The Iranian official noted that recent reports show ships from China, Russia, Pakistan, Iraq, and India have already crossed the strait, with some vessels passing through just a few nights ago. He also mentioned Bangladesh as another country that has coordinated with Iran for safe passage. “This cooperation will continue even after the conflict intensifies,” Araghchi added.
However, Araghchi made it clear that vessels belonging to nations involved in the ongoing Middle East conflict, such as the United States, Israel, and certain Gulf countries, will not be allowed to transit the strait. “We are in a state of war, and the region is a war zone. There is no reason to permit the ships of our enemies and their allies to pass through,” he said, emphasizing the strategic importance of the strait’s control.
The Iranian Foreign Minister expressed satisfaction with Iran’s leadership over the Strait of Hormuz, which he said has been demonstrated over the past five decades. He dismissed doubts from international observers who believed Iran lacked the resolve to enforce a partial blockade, stating that Iran proved its strength and authority by asserting control despite global pressures.
“They thought Iran lacked the courage to take such action. But we did it with strength,” Araghchi asserted. “Many nations tried to mobilize their resources and even turned to countries they consider enemies to help reopen the waterway, but no one responded. It’s simply not feasible.”
This announcement comes at a time of heightened regional tensions, with fears of escalation in the Middle East. Iran’s stance on allowing passage for certain nations signals a strategic move to maintain some level of international maritime activity while asserting its influence over the crucial Strait of Hormuz. The international community continues to monitor developments closely as Iran balances its security concerns with global trade interests.
