Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Iran has announced that it will allow ships from five “friendly nations,” including India, to pass through the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz despite ongoing conflict in the region.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated in a televised interview that the strait remains partially operational and is not entirely closed. According to him, Iran is permitting controlled passage for countries maintaining cooperative diplomatic relations.
India, along with Russia, China, Pakistan, and Iraq, has been granted safe transit through the narrow maritime corridor, which is vital for global oil shipments. Araghchi revealed that Indian vessels have already successfully crossed the strait in recent days under coordinated arrangements.
He emphasized that several nations had approached Iran seeking assurances for maritime safety, and Iran’s armed forces facilitated passage for those considered allies or neutral parties.
However, Iran has taken a firm stance against countries it views as adversaries. Ships linked to the United States, Israel, and certain Gulf nations involved in the ongoing conflict will not be allowed to pass through the strait.
Calling the region an active war zone, Araghchi justified the selective restriction, stating that there is “no obligation” to allow enemy-linked vessels access during wartime conditions.
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints, has long been at the center of geopolitical tensions. Iran’s move to partially control access marks a significant escalation, demonstrating its strategic leverage over global energy routes.
Despite skepticism from the international community, Iran claims it has successfully enforced its authority in the region, asserting that external efforts to counter its actions have failed.
The development carries major implications for global trade and energy markets, particularly for countries heavily dependent on oil imports through this route, including India.