Iran Announces Alternative Route in Strait of Hormuz to Avoid Sea Mines

Iran has announced an alternative route for ships crossing the Strait of Hormuz. This alternative route has been prepared due to the risk of sea mines in the main zone of this vital waterway.

According to AFP, on Thursday (9 April 2026), Tehran has agreed to temporarily reopen the strait. Iran has agreed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as part of a two-week ceasefire.

“All ships intending to cross the Strait of Hormuz are hereby notified that, to comply with maritime safety principles and to protect against the possibility of collision with sea mines… they must take the alternative route for traffic in the Strait of Hormuz,” stated the Iranian Revolutionary Guard in a statement quoted by local media.

The statement also shared instructions for the alternative entry and exit routes through the strait.

Previously, the United States (US) and Iran agreed to a ceasefire. This ceasefire is marked by the opening of the Strait of Hormuz.

Initially, this ceasefire was announced by US President Donald Trump. In a statement posted on the White House X account, as seen on Wednesday (8 April), Trump gave conditions to Iran. Namely, Iran must fully open the Strait of Hormuz.

“Based on conversations with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir from Pakistan, where they asked me to postpone the use of destructive force that would be sent tonight to Iran, and on the condition that Iran agrees to the full, immediate, and safe opening of the Strait of Hormuz, I agree to suspend bombing and attacks against Iran for a two-week period. This will be a two-way ceasefire!” said Trump.

Iran’s National Security Council stated that it would allocate a two-week deadline for negotiations with the US. This deadline can be extended with the agreement of both parties.