Iran reopens Strait of Hormuz to vessels

Ebun Emmanuel –April 17, 2026

Iran has announced the reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz to commercial vessels.

The move has signalled relief for global oil markets.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Friday that the vital waterway would remain fully accessible for commercial shipping as long as the current ceasefire in the Middle East continues.

“The passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire,” Araghchi said in a post on X.

An Iranian senior military official also stated that only civilian vessels would be allowed through designated channels and with approval from the naval forces of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

“The passage of military vessels through the Strait of Hormuz remains prohibited,” the official said.

United States President Donald Trump welcomed Iran’s decision to reopen the route but said the US naval blockade on Iranian ports would remain until a broader peace agreement is reached.

“The naval blockade will remain in full force and effect as it pertains to Iran, only, until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete,” Trump said on Truth Social.