Amid escalating tensions in the Gulf, Iran has stated that the Strait of Hormuz remains open, though traffic is being controlled under special conditions, as Iranian armed forces monitor passage. Foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei clarified on Monday that vessel movements are being regulated due to insecurity created by US and Israeli actions, while countries not engaged in military aggression against Iran have been allowed to transit with coordination and permission from Iran’s forces.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi emphasized that any end to the ongoing conflict with the US and Israel must be “definitive” and reiterated that Tehran has not requested a ceasefire. He noted that the strait is only restricted for “enemies and those supporting their aggression.”
In response to US claims that Iran’s navy had been “completely decimated,” the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) asserted that American naval forces “lack the courage to approach the Persian Gulf,” maintaining Iranian control over the strategic waterway.
Meanwhile, several countries have clarified their positions regarding international intervention in the strait. Italy stated that no naval missions could currently be extended to Hormuz, and Greece confirmed it has no plans to engage in operations there.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical maritime chokepoint, with nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply passing through it. The ongoing conflict has contributed to heightened global oil prices and significant disruptions in shipping and trade across the region.