Araghchi’s Statement on the Strait of Hormuz: Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has issued a statement asserting that the Strait of Hormuz has not been completely closed. He maintains that this maritime route is closed only to ships and tankers linked to the United States and Israel, while vessels from other nations are being permitted to pass through.
In an interview, Araghchi stated that ships belonging to nations taking action against Iran—or those considered its adversaries—will not be granted permission to traverse this route. Vessels from other countries, however, may utilise this passage as usual.
Hundreds of Ships Stranded at Sea
However, the situation on the ground appears somewhat different. According to reports, hundreds of ships are currently stranded within this critical maritime corridor, situated between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. It is reported that a number of Indian vessels are among those affected.
Araghchi contends that certain shipping companies are opting to avoid this route for security reasons. According to him, this constitutes an independent decision by these companies and is not directly linked to Iran’s policy decisions. He further noted that numerous oil tankers and cargo vessels continue to pass through the strait.
Iranian Foreign Minister: Trump Issues Stern Warning
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a warning to Iran. Trump stated that if the movement of ships is obstructed, Iran’s oil infrastructure could be targeted.
Prior to this, he had also announced the possibility of an attack on Kharg Island—described as Iran’s primary oil hub. Trump further suggested that several nations might deploy their warships to help keep this maritime route open. He expressed hope that countries such as China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom would also dispatch vessels to ensure that global trade and energy supplies remain uninterrupted.
Iran has identified Russia and China as its strategic partners. Araghchi reiterated that Russia and China are indeed Iran’s strategic allies and that military cooperation with them is already underway.
Why the Strait of Hormuz is Crucial to the World
It is worth noting that the Strait of Hormuz ranks as one of the most vital maritime routes in the world. It is situated between Iran and Oman, and its narrowest width is approximately 33 kilometres. Roughly 20 percent of the world’s daily oil supply passes through this route. Therefore, if a major crisis were to arise along this route, it could impact the global oil market and the economies of numerous countries.
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