Iran Opens Strait of Hormuz to All Ships Except Enemy-Linked Vessels

Iran has announced that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to international shipping.

“The Strait of Hormuz remains open to all shipping except vessels linked to “Iran’s enemies”, Iran’s representative to the U”

AL24 News

The announcement includes a major restriction prohibiting vessels linked to what Iran considers 'enemy nations'.

Business Today

Iran's representative to the UN's International Maritime Organization, Ali Mousavi, made the announcement.

Mousavi stated that vessels from hostile nations must coordinate security arrangements with Tehran.

This announcement comes amid heightened tensions following February 28 US-Israeli strikes on Iran.

The strikes triggered the current conflict in the region.

The Strait of Hormuz serves as a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies.

Approximately 20% of the world's crude oil and liquefied natural gas supplies normally flow through it.

BusinessLine

Before the US-Israeli war began on February 28, about one in five shipments of crude oil by sea passed through.

Ongoing threats of Iranian attacks have already severely disrupted shipping.

Many commercial operators are reluctant to transit due to rising security risks.

These risks include potential mine placements and vessel attacks.

The situation has escalated dramatically with US President Donald Trump issuing a 48-hour ultimatum.

“The Strait of Hormuz remains open to all shipping except vessels linked to “Iran’s enemies”, Iran’s representative to the U”

BusinessLine

Trump demanded that Iran fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz without threat.

He threatened potential retaliatory strikes on Iranian power infrastructure.

Trump made the declaration on his social media platform Truth Social.

Iran responded by warning of counter-attacks on US and allied targets.

This creates a dangerous standoff at the strategic waterway.

Iran has justified its restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz by blaming US and Israeli aggression.

Iran's representative Ali Mousavi said diplomacy remains the primary focus.

International Business Times

Mousavi stated that complete cessation of aggression and mutual trust are more important.

Tehran has allowed friendly nations including China, India, Pakistan, and Japan to pass safely.

Iran has disrupted traffic by attacking vessels from other countries.

Iran has also potentially placed mines in the area as retaliation.

This retaliation is for the February 28 joint US-Israeli strikes that triggered the conflict.

European and Gulf states are urging Tehran to de-escalate and allow safe passage.

“Trending: West Asia war Iran hits Israeli town Indian Merchant Navy captain dead Iran fires at Diego Garcia IPL 2026 Dhurandhar 2 advertisement Hormuz open to all but ‘enemy’ vessels: Iran doubles down after Trump’s 48-hour ultimatum FP News Desk _•_ March 22, 2026, 14:36:36 IST advertisement Iran has said the Strait of Hormuz remains open to most global shipping but restricted for vessels linked to its “enemies,” signalling a partial easing of its earlier stance even as tensions escalate after Trump’s 48-hour ultimatum”

Firstpost

They emphasize the need to ensure global energy stability.

LondonLovesBusiness

The US has attempted to build a naval coalition to escort vessels.

Several NATO allies have been reluctant to participate in military operations against Iran.

EU diplomats warn that any obstruction risks widespread economic fallout.

The requirement for ships to seek Tehran's approval is criticized.

This places global trade at the mercy of Iran's judgment.

This sets the stage for a direct clash with Washington's demands.