In a strategic move aimed at undermining the US-led coalition, Iran announced on Saturday that it will permit passage through the Strait of Hormuz to all nations except the United States and Israel. This declaration comes shortly after US forces targeted military sites on Kharg Island, a key hub for Iran’s oil industry.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi clarified the nation’s stance, stating, “The Strait of Hormuz remains open. It is only restricted to tankers and vessels belonging to our adversaries and their allies who have engaged in attacks against us. Others can navigate freely,” he explained during an interview with MS NOW.
The tension escalates as President Trump has issued threats to dismantle Iran’s oil infrastructure on Kharg Island, a critical point for 90% of the country’s oil exports, should Iran fail to ensure secure passage for international ships.
President Trump has threatened to destroy Iran’s oil infrastructure on Kharg Island energy hub — through which 90% of its oil exports pass — if it refuses to allow safe passage.
Araghchi noted that many ships “prefer” not to undertake the journey due to “security concerns,” but insisted, “this has nothing to do with us.”
“And I can say that the Strait is not closed, but it is only closed to American, Israeli, you know, ships and tankers, and not to others.”
Two Indian-flagged tankers carrying liquefied petroleum gas crossed the Strait, Reuters reported Saturday.
“They crossed the Strait of Hormuz safely early this morning and are en route to India,” Rajesh Kumar Sinha, the minister of ports and shipping in New Delhi, said.
Sixteen ships operating in and around the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz have been attacked since the war started Feb. 28 , according to UK Maritime Trade Operations.
