Iran Opens Access: Malaysian Tanker Ships Allowed to Pass Through Strait of Hormuz

KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that Malaysian ships are now permitted to pass through the Strait of Hormuz after communications with several regional leaders, including those from Iran, Egypt, and Turkey.

In a statement broadcast on Thursday (26/3/2026), Anwar expressed gratitude to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian for the decision to reopen access for Malaysian ships in that strategic shipping lane.

He said the Malaysian government is currently processing the release of a Malaysian oil tanker and its crew so they can continue their journey home.

According to him, communications with Iran and other countries were part of Malaysia’s efforts to help promote peace in the Middle East region.

However, he acknowledged that such steps are not easy. Iran, Anwar said, feels it has been repeatedly disappointed, making it difficult to accept peace efforts without clear and binding security guarantees for its country.

“For now, we must manage the situation because the blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, the war, and the halt in oil and gas supplies all affect us,” said Anwar.

Previously, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasised that the Strait of Hormuz is not fully closed.

Speaking to Iranian state television, Araghchi said many countries have contacted them to ensure maritime safety in the area.

He added that Iran provides escorts for several countries deemed friendly or in certain cases considered necessary.

“For several countries we consider friendly, or in certain cases that we deem necessary, our armed forces have provided safe escorts,” he said.

Araghchi mentioned some countries whose ships have passed with escorts, including China, Russia, Pakistan, Iraq, and India.

“Two Indian ships passed a few nights ago, as well as from other countries, even Bangladesh. These countries communicate and coordinate with us, and this will continue, even after the war ends,” he stated.