Hormuz open to all except nations at war with Iran: Araghchi

Hormuz open to all except nations at war with Iran: Araghchi


Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said the Strait of Hormuz remains open to international shipping, except for vessels belonging to countries 'at war' with Iran, during a press conference in New Delhi on Friday, May 15.

"As much as our concern, Hormuz is open to all except those vessels of those countries who are in war with us," Araghchi said, adding: "We are ready to help those who want to pass the strait".

Stressing that Iran intends to maintain navigation through the corridor, the foreign minister said safe passage would continue and regional stability could return once hostilities end. "Once the aggression is ended, I am sure everything will go to normal. We will arrange safe passage of all vessels," he stated .

He also said discussions with India covered major regional issues, including the Strait of Hormuz, adding that both countries share "close positions, same concerns and same interests." He expressed hope that "things can go back to normal once aggression ends" .

However, Iran has simultaneously tightened control over the strait, introducing a new mandatory clearance system for commercial ships. Under the new system, vessels must seek prior approval, pay toll charges and submit more than 40 details including ownership, crew, cargo, origin and destination.

Iran's Army spokesman Brigadier General Mohammad Akraminia has declared that US weapons will no longer be allowed to transit the strait into regional bases, warning that countries complying with US sanctions could face difficulties while crossing.

Meanwhile, Iran has begun allowing some Chinese vessels to transit following requests from China's foreign minister, in line with the strategic partnership between the two countries . A Chinese supertanker carrying two million barrels of Iraqi crude passed through the strait on May 13 after being stranded for more than two months.