Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said the Strait of Hormuz remains open for international shipping but vessels linked to the United States and Israel will not be allowed to transit the strategic waterway.
Speaking in an interview with an American cable news channel, Araghchi said the maritime passage has not been fully shut despite heightened tensions in the region following recent military developments.
He said ships from other countries remain free to navigate the strait, one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes connecting the Persian Gulf to global markets.
However, vessels associated with the United States and Israel would not be permitted to pass through the waterway, the Iranian minister said.
Araghchi added that disruptions in shipping were partly due to companies choosing to avoid the area amid security concerns rather than because of a complete blockade.
Shipping traffic through the narrow waterway between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman has slowed amid rising tensions, according to shipping reports.
Despite the situation, Araghchi said some tankers and cargo vessels continue to move through the strait, indicating that the route remains operational for international navigation.
