Iran: Strait of Hormuz is Open, Except for 'Enemies'
Iranian diplomat says maritime transit allowed with coordination, warning restrictions apply to adversaries.
- Publish date: since 12 hour Reading time: 1 min read
Iran has stated that the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz remains open to global maritime traffic, but with a clear exception for what it described as its “enemies.”
According to Iranian officials, ships can continue to pass through the waterway provided they coordinate with Tehran to ensure safety and security arrangements are in place. The remarks come amid heightened tensions in the Gulf region and concerns over potential disruptions to global oil supplies.
Seyed Ali Mousavi, Iran’s Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization and ambassador to the United Kingdom, said transit remains accessible under specific conditions.
“The Strait of Hormuz is open to everyone except enemies,” Mousavi was quoted as saying. He added that “navigation is possible with coordination for security and safety arrangements.”
The comments signal a calibrated stance from Tehran, suggesting that while the route is not fully closed, access may be restricted depending on geopolitical alignments. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical chokepoints for oil shipments, handling a significant share of global energy exports.
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Any perceived limitations on access to the waterway have immediate implications for international shipping, energy markets, and regional stability. Analysts note that Iran’s remarks could heighten uncertainty among global stakeholders, particularly as tensions between regional and global powers continue to evolve.
The statement is likely to draw reactions from Western nations and Gulf states, many of which rely heavily on uninterrupted passage through the Strait for energy exports and trade.