List of Countries Whose Ships Are Allowed to Cross the Strait of Hormuz Amid Iran Conflict
Iran’s decision to impose restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz has had a significant impact on global energy supplies. Subscription-based provider of data, analytics, and intelligence monitoring global commodity flows, shipping, and energy, Kpler, recorded a 95 per cent decline in ship movements through the Strait of Hormuz since 1 March 2026.
Amid this uncertainty, a number of countries continue to operate ships through the waterway after receiving what is considered implicit or explicit permission from Iran. This often reflects diplomatic positions, energy relations, or strategic neutrality in the conflict.
The following is a list of countries whose ships have crossed the Strait of Hormuz, based on a report by The Telegraph:
Thailand
On Wednesday (25/3/2026), a Thai oil tanker successfully passed through the strait following diplomatic coordination with Iran. This occurred a day after Iran informed the UN Security Council and the International Maritime Organisation that only “non-hostile” ships would be allowed to pass after coordinating with Iranian authorities, as reported by Reuters.
“When we say the Strait of Hormuz is not closed, we mean it. And as a note, friends have a special place,” wrote the Iranian Embassy on the X platform.
China
On Monday (23/3/2026), the first Chinese-owned cargo ship was permitted to pass by Iran. According to maritime intelligence firm Lloyd’s List Intelligence (LLI), the ship was the first to pay a toll fee to obtain permission to cross.
India
Two Indian oil tankers passed through the route amid warnings from US President Donald Trump regarding potential attacks if Iran does not reopen the strait.
The first Indian tanker crossed on 12 March after sources in the Indian government confirmed permission from Iran. By 20 March, nine Indian ships had passed safely, while LLI noted at least 22 ships heading to India were still in the process of evacuation.
Turkey
On 13 March, a Turkish-owned ship that had been waiting near Iran was allowed to pass after obtaining permission from Tehran, according to Turkish Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloglu. Of the 15 Turkish ships in the area, only one has successfully crossed.
Japan
Although no Japanese ships have crossed yet, Iran has expressed readiness to allow ships associated with Japan to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. This was conveyed following talks between Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi.