Iran Declares Strait of Hormuz “Completely Open” to All Commercial Vessels During Remaining Ceasefire Period

Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi announced Friday that the passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is now “completely open” for the remainder of the ceasefire period, provided ships follow coordinated routes set by Iranian authorities.

The declaration, made via a post on X, states: “In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

This move comes amid a fragile two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran, originally tied to efforts to restore safe navigation in the critical waterway, which carries about one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies. The announcement aligns with earlier ceasefire terms that included provisions for “safe passage” through the strait, though Iran had previously emphasized coordination with its armed forces and noted “technical limitations.”

A temporary ceasefire was reached earlier in April, with US President Donald Trump conditioning de-escalation on the complete, immediate, and safe opening of the strait. Iran had resisted full unrestricted access, instead implementing controlled transit and, in some reports, considering tolls or daily limits on vessels.

The US and regional allies have welcomed signals of reopening but continue to monitor compliance closely. Markets are expected to react to improved prospects for energy flows, though caution remains high given the ceasefire’s temporary nature and history of restrictions.

This development could ease global energy supply concerns if sustained, but analysts warn that full normalization hinges on broader diplomatic progress beyond the current ceasefire window.