Tehran, Apr 10:
In a major development affecting global shipping and energy markets, Iran has announced it will restrict vessel traffic through the strategic Strait of Hormuz to a maximum of 15 ships per day under the terms of a fragile ceasefire agreement reached with the United States.
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow maritime chokepoint between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most critical sea routes, with around one‑fifth of global oil supplies and other key commodities normally passing through it. The restricted transit comes after weeks of heightened conflict in the Middle East, which saw the waterway largely closed earlier in the crisis, contributing to higher global energy prices.
Iran’s new limit reflects the terms of a two‑week ceasefire deal brokered with Washington, under which Tehran agreed to allow some vessel movement in coordination with its armed forces. However, the restrictions mean the Strait remains far from its pre‑conflict levels of traffic, when more than 100 ships passed through daily.
The move is seen as both a symbolic gesture toward easing tensions and a continuation of control by Iran over the strategic waterway. While the ceasefire has eased some immediate hostilities, analysts caution that shipping operations remain cautious, and normal traffic levels are unlikely to return quickly without a more stable peace.
The restriction on vessel numbers highlights how delicate the ceasefire remains and underscores lingering uncertainties in regional security that continue to influence global maritime operations and energy markets. Nations and shipping operators are watching closely to see whether the limited opening holds or if further diplomatic efforts will be needed to fully restore freedom of navigation in the strait.