Iran allows limited Hormuz transit, bars U.S., Israeli-linked vessels
London— Iran said “non-hostile vessels” may transit the Strait of Hormuz if they comply with security requirements and coordinate with authorities, according to a statement circulated to the International Maritime Organization, while excluding ships linked to the United States and Israel amid ongoing conflict.
The statement, issued by Iran’s foreign ministry and shared with IMO member states and non-governmental organizations, said vessels that do not “participate in or support acts of aggression” against Iran would be permitted safe passage through the strategic waterway, subject to adherence to safety and security regulations.
However, it specified that vessels, equipment, and assets belonging to what it described as “aggressor parties” including the United States and Israel would not qualify for what it termed “innocent or non-hostile passage.
”Iran said responsibility for any disruption or escalation in the Strait of Hormuz lay with Washington and Tel Aviv, accusing them of waging an “unlawful and destabilising war” that has heightened risks to international shipping and regional stability.
The statement reflects Tehran’s position as tensions remain elevated following the outbreak of war triggered by U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28.
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, has been effectively closed since the escalation, contributing to sharp increases in global oil and gas prices.
Iran’s conditional reopening for select vessels introduces limited operational clarity for commercial shipping, though the exclusion of U.S. and Israeli-linked assets underscores the continuing strategic and geopolitical risks in the region.
