Iran Says Strait of Hormuz Open to Global Shipping but Bars US and Israeli Vessels

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has said that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for international shipping, but warned that vessels linked to the United States and Israel would not be allowed to pass through the strategic waterway.

Speaking in an interview reported by The Jerusalem Post, Araghchi explained that the route continues to operate for global trade despite rising tensions in the region.

Strait of Hormuz Still Open for Most Ships

According to the Iranian foreign minister, the Strait of Hormuz has not been completely closed and many international vessels are still using the route.

However, he claimed that ships associated with the United States and Israel would face restrictions. Araghchi said the passage remains accessible for other countries and global shipping companies.

The minister also noted that some shipping firms have voluntarily avoided the route because of security concerns linked to the escalating conflict in the region.

Why the Strait of Hormuz Is Important

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most important shipping routes in the world. It connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and plays a key role in global oil transportation.

A large portion of the world's crude oil exports from Gulf countries passes through this narrow waterway every day. Because of this, any disruption in the strait can affect global energy prices and international shipping routes.

Energy experts consider the strait one of the most sensitive maritime chokepoints in global trade.

US Response and Possible Military Deployment

The situation has raised concerns among several countries that rely on oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.

US President Donald Trump recently said that the United States and its allies could deploy warships to ensure that the route remains open for global shipping.

In a message posted on Truth Social, Trump said that several countries depend heavily on the strait for energy supplies and may cooperate to secure the waterway.

Countries such as China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom are among those that rely on oil transported through the passage.

Iran Dismisses Claims About Its Leadership

During the interview, Araghchi also rejected reports about instability within Iran's leadership.

He dismissed claims made by Pete Hegseth, the US Secretary of Defense, that Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei had been injured.

Araghchi said there were no problems with the country's leadership and that the supreme leader continues to carry out his responsibilities under Iran's constitutional system.
He also stressed that Iran's political system remains stable and does not depend on any single individual.

Iran Addresses Nuclear Negotiation Claims

The Iranian foreign minister also responded to speculation about statements he allegedly made during nuclear negotiations with US officials in Geneva.

Araghchi denied threatening that Iran possessed enough uranium to produce several nuclear weapons. He explained that his remarks about the country's enriched uranium stockpile had been misunderstood.

According to him, Iran currently holds about 440 kilograms of uranium enriched to 60 percent purity, which could theoretically be enriched further. He said the point of raising this issue during negotiations was to demonstrate the level of concessions Iran was prepared to discuss in diplomatic talks.

The developments highlight the growing tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel. Concerns remain about regional military activity, nuclear negotiations and the security of global energy routes.
Experts warn that any disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz could significantly affect global oil markets and international trade.