Anwar Ibrahim's Lobbying Succeeds: Iran Allows Malaysian Tanker Ships to Pass Through the Strait of Hormuz

KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced on Thursday (26/3/2026) that he had spoken with leaders in the Persian Gulf region, adding that Malaysian ships are now permitted to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. Anwar expressed gratitude to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. “We are now in the process of releasing the Malaysian tanker ships and the workers involved so that they can continue their journey home,” Anwar stated in a speech broadcast by Malaysian television stations, as reported by The Cradle. Anwar said his discussions with Iranian leaders and other countries are part of broader efforts to help promote peace in West Asia. “But it is not easy, as Iran feels repeatedly deceived and finds it difficult to accept a peaceful path without clear and binding security guarantees for its nation.”