Iran says blockade of Strait of Hormuz applies only to enemies
Iran is not closing the Strait of Hormuz entirely amid its conflict with the United States and Israel. Iran is only restricting access to the strategically vital waterway for global energy supplies for “enemies”.
According to TRT World on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, Iranian authorities stated that vessels from countries not involved in the war would be permitted to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, with military coordination with Tehran despite broader disruptions.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated more clearly on Monday, 16 March local time that some oil tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz would be allowed passage.
Araghchi emphasised that the Strait of Hormuz would only be closed to “enemies and parties supporting their aggression”.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei conveyed a similar reassurance in a separate statement cited by local Tehran media.
“Vessels belonging to countries not involved in the war have been permitted to transit the Strait of Hormuz with coordination and permission from the Iranian military,” Baghaei stated.
This reassurance came as the conflict between the US-Israel and Iran has effectively halted most maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. This has left tankers and other vessels stranded and sparked concerns over global energy supplies.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital waterway through which approximately 20 per cent of global oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) trade passes, making any disruption a major concern for energy markets.
Since being heavily attacked by the US and Israel over two weeks ago, Iran has repeatedly struck targets in Israel, US military bases and energy infrastructure in Gulf states with missiles and drones.
Meanwhile, maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed, triggering broader concerns about a global energy crisis. However, some vessels have been permitted passage in recent days, suggesting Iran may be selectively allowing limited transits.
Reports indicate that tankers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Turkey have been permitted to safely transit the Strait of Hormuz.
Indian authorities stated that two of their tankers carrying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, 14 March morning.
A Pakistan-flagged tanker named Karachi, operated by Pakistan National Shipping Corporation, completed its passage through the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday, 15 March.
A Turkish-flagged vessel named Rozana was also permitted to transit the Strait of Hormuz after Ankara received clearance from Tehran authorities.