Iran’s decision to keep the Strait of Hormuz open to commercial vessels during an ongoing ceasefire is expected to ease concerns over potential disruptions to global oil supply.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced on April 17 that the strategic waterway will remain “completely open” for the duration of the truce, ensuring continued passage of oil shipments through one of the world’s most critical maritime routes.
“The passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire,” Araghchi said in a post on X.
The statement comes amid uncertainty over which ceasefire is being referenced—either the 10-day truce between Lebanon and Israel that began at midnight or the earlier two-week ceasefire between Iran and the United States that started on April 8.
US President Donald Trump welcomed the announcement, saying Iran had confirmed the waterway was open for shipping.
“Thank you!” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform, adding that the strait was “fully open and ready for full passage.”
The Strait of Hormuz is a key chokepoint for global oil trade, and its continued operation is seen as critical to maintaining stable energy supply and prices worldwide.
