Iran Opens Hormuz Strait but US Maintains Naval Blockade

Iran has announced the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz for commercial shipping. The country’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed the decision in a social media post on Friday, stating that the waterway is now operational for international trade.

He said the move was taken to ensure the continuity of global commerce during the ongoing ceasefire period. Ships are expected to navigate through designated coordinated routes, he added.

However, shortly after Iran’s announcement, the United States expressed a differing position. US President Donald Trump stated that while the Strait of Hormuz remains open for trade, the US naval blockade on Iranian ports will continue.

According to him, the blockade will remain in place until a comprehensive agreement is reached with Iran.

Meanwhile, easing tensions in the Hormuz region have already had an impact on global energy markets. The price of oil has dropped to around $88 per barrel.

Looking at the broader context, tensions surrounding Iran escalated in late February, with military activities by the United States and Israel further complicating the situation. The conflict later spread to Lebanon.

To bring the situation under control, a temporary ceasefire was announced in early March, set to remain in effect for a limited period. Although several rounds of talks have taken place between the two sides, no permanent agreement has yet been reached.

Analysts say that disagreements, particularly over nuclear issues and control of the Strait of Hormuz, have made negotiations increasingly complex.

Despite the reopening of the strait, observers believe that geopolitical tensions have not fully subsided.

Source: Al Jazeera