Iran Permits Chinese Ships to Cross the Strait of Hormuz

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, TEHRAN — Iran has reportedly permitted several Chinese ships to cross the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday (14/5/2026). This follows diplomatic coordination and an agreement regarding Tehran’s rules for managing the strategic sea route.

Fars News Agency reported that the decision was made after intensive communication between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Beijing’s ambassador in Tehran. Citing sources familiar with the matter, Fars stated that Iranian and Chinese officials reached a mutual understanding on Iran’s framework of rules concerning maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.

The sources confirmed that the navigation process for the permitted Chinese ships began last night. Iranian officials view this arrangement as part of the Islamic Republic’s internal protocols to prevent what they consider political exploitation of the strategic significance of the Strait of Hormuz.

The report also described the move as reflecting Iran’s “intelligent and precise” management of one of the world’s most vital energy corridors.

In a related development, Iranian state television reported that 30 ships have crossed the Strait of Hormuz since the previous night under the supervision of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps navy or IRGC.

Iranian authorities have repeatedly warned that only the shipping lanes designated by Tehran are considered safe for transit. The Iranian Navy Command emphasised that ships deviating from approved routes may face “firm responses”.

These warnings come amid escalating military tensions in the Gulf region following the US-Israel war against Iran and disputes over freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

This latest development occurred a day after a giant Chinese-flagged tanker was observed crossing the Strait of Hormuz.