Strait of Hormuz to remain open during Lebanon ceasefire: Araghchi

The Strait of Hormuz will remain completely open during the ongoing ceasefire in Lebanon, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said. According to him, all commercial vessels will be able to transit through the strait without hindrance during the 10-day truce period.

Al Jazeera reported that securing a ceasefire in Lebanon was one of Iran's key demands. US President Donald Trump announced a 10-day ceasefire in Lebanon on Thursday, which came into effect at 3:00 am Bangladesh time on Friday.

Earlier, on April 8, a ceasefire was agreed between Iran, the United States and Israel. Iran had consistently claimed that Lebanon should be included in that ceasefire, a position also supported by mediator Pakistan.

However, the US and Israel initially rejected this demand, and Israel continued its attacks on Lebanon. Later, when Iran decided to sit for a second round of talks with the US, a fresh ceasefire was announced for Lebanon.

Following this, Iran declared that the Strait of Hormuz would remain open for international commercial vessels for the duration of the 10-day ceasefire.