Micah Jonah
March 22, 2026
Iran has stated that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to all vessels except those linked to “Iran’s enemies,” following threats from US President, Donald Trump to strike Iranian power plants if the waterway was not fully reopened within 48 hours.
The narrow strait, a critical choke-point for roughly a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, has seen significantly reduced traffic due to ongoing US-Israel military operations against Iran. Shipping disruptions in the strait have raised concerns of a global energy shock.
Iran’s representative to the UN maritime agency, Ali Mousavi, said Tehran is ready to work with the International Maritime Organisation to ensure maritime safety and protect seafarers. Ships not associated with “Iran’s enemies” can pass through the strait if they coordinate security arrangements with Iranian authorities.
Mousavi emphasized that diplomacy remains Iran’s priority but noted that a complete cessation of aggression and mutual trust are crucial. He blamed Israeli and US attacks against Iran for the current tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.
This statement underscores Tehran’s attempt to balance its strategic control over the strait with international concerns, while signaling that it could still restrict access for vessels linked to its adversaries.
