Tehran, Mar 26:
Amid the escalating Middle East crisis and tensions over control of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that Tehran will not block vessels from India and four other countries as they navigate the crucial shipping route, even as broader hostilities continue in the region.
The statement comes against the backdrop of ongoing conflict that has seen Iran restrict access to the Strait of Hormuz — a vital artery for global oil and gas shipments — following the outbreak of war involving the United States and its allies. While Iran has previously threatened to disrupt or close the passage in response to military attacks on its territory, the government clarified that vessels from India and select nations will be granted safe passage.
The move is expected to offer some relief to energy and shipping stakeholders reliant on the route and may help ease immediate supply concerns for countries heavily dependent on Strait of Hormuz transit, including India. However, global maritime uncertainty persists amid wider tensions in the region.