Iran reopens Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping after ceasefire announcement

Iran has reopened the Strait of Hormuz to all commercial vessels, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Friday.

In a statement on social media, Araghchi said the move follows a ceasefire arrangement linked to developments in Lebanon, adding that transit through the strait would remain fully open for commercial shipping for the duration of the ceasefire period.

He said vessels would continue to pass along agreed routes, as previously announced by Iran’s ports and maritime authorities.

The strait, one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes, had been blocked by Tehran following the outbreak of conflict involving the United States and Israel. The disruption contributed to volatility in global oil markets and rising fuel prices.

US President Donald Trump had called on NATO allies to assist in reopening the passage, though allies reportedly declined. He later warned of a possible US withdrawal from NATO amid disagreements.

Iran briefly reopened the waterway after a ceasefire with the United States, but soon closed it again, citing Israeli strikes in Lebanon. Some media reports have suggested Tehran may also have faced technical difficulties in clearing naval mines, though this has not been officially confirmed.

Separately, talks between the United States and Iran over Tehran’s nuclear programme were held in Pakistan on 11 April, but ended without agreement. Following the breakdown, Trump announced a maritime blockade targeting vessels paying Iranian transit fees.

On 15 April, Trump said the strait would be reopened permanently, though developments on the ground have remained fluid.