Iran Allows Ships to Pass Through the Strait of Hormuz, But with Conditions
Iran has stated that non-hostile ships can pass safely through the Strait of Hormuz. This was announced amid a plunge in shipping traffic that has sparked a global energy crisis.
In an official statement on Tuesday (24 March 2026), Iran’s mission to the United Nations (UN) stated that ships can obtain a “safe passage” as long as they are not involved in or supporting aggressive actions against Iran and comply with the established safety and security rules.
As reported by Al Jazeera on Thursday (26 March 2026), Iran emphasised that navigation must be coordinated with relevant authorities in Tehran. A similar statement had previously been conveyed to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
This statement comes amid claims by US President Donald Trump that negotiations to end the war with Iran are underway, despite earlier denials from Tehran.
Since the conflict erupted on 28 February 2026, ship traffic in the Strait of Hormuz has dropped sharply. Data from maritime intelligence firm Windward shows only five ships passing through per day, a far cry from the pre-war average of around 120 ships daily.
At the start of the conflict, Iran had warned that any ship attempting to pass risked attack. However, Tehran officials have since stated that the route remains open, except to those considered enemies.
After holding above $100 per barrel throughout March, Brent crude oil prices fell more than 9 per cent on Wednesday. This decline followed media reports of diplomatic efforts to end the conflict.
Additionally, the United States is reported to have submitted a 15-point peace proposal to Iran to end the conflict. The proposal includes restrictions on Iran’s nuclear programme and the reopening of access to the Strait of Hormuz.
A New York Times report indicated that the proposal was delivered through Pakistan as a mediator. Israel’s Channel 12 also reported plans for a one-month ceasefire to open room for further negotiations.
One of the main points in the plan is the cessation of uranium enrichment in Iranian territory.
Iran is also asked to hand over all enriched uranium material, deemed to have potential for development into nuclear weapons.
Furthermore, Iran is requested to open unrestricted access to the Strait of Hormuz. The strait is a strategic route to the Gulf through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes.
The partial blockade previously imposed by Iran has reportedly triggered a surge in global energy prices.