Tehran / New Delhi — March 16, 2026
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Saturday that the strategic Strait of Hormuz remains open, but vessels linked to the United States and Israel are not allowed to pass.
Araghchi’s remarks come amid rising tensions in the region and follow calls by Donald Trump for major global powers to deploy naval forces to keep the vital shipping route open.
Trump said the United States would ensure the crucial maritime corridor remains accessible for international trade.
Iran Cites Security Concerns for Restrictions
Speaking during a conversation with media, Araghchi said the strait remains operational for most countries.
“The Strait of Hormuz is open,” he said. “It is only closed to our enemies — the United States and its allies’ tankers and ships. There are no restrictions for others.”
When asked about reports of an Iranian blockade in the region, Araghchi said the measures were taken due to security concerns.
He also emphasized Iran’s strategic relationships with Russia and China, describing them as long-standing partners.
“Russia and China are our strategic partners,” he said. “Our cooperation has been close in the past and continues today, including military cooperation.”
IRGC Commander Says Strait Remains Under Iranian Control
A senior Iranian military official also stated that the waterway remains open but under Tehran’s authority.
Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the navy of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, said claims by the United States that it had destroyed Iran’s naval capabilities were inaccurate.
According to reports carried by Xinhua News Agency citing Iran’s Tasnim News Agency, Tangsiri said the strait had not been militarily closed.
Instead, he said it remains under Iran’s control and monitoring.
Strategic Importance of the Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the most critical energy transit routes in the world, with roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments passing through the narrow waterway.
Any disruption in the region can significantly affect global oil markets and international shipping.
Iran’s new supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei recently said in a message that Tehran intends to maintain its influence over the strait.
Trump Calls for International Naval Presence
Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump urged countries that rely on oil transported through the Strait of Hormuz to help maintain its security.
Trump said nations benefiting from the route should share responsibility for keeping the sea lane open, adding that the United States would assist efforts to protect the corridor.
The comments come as Washington seeks to contain rising oil prices and stabilize global energy markets.
Rising Regional Tensions
The situation in the region has intensified in recent weeks following military exchanges involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Reports indicate that US and Israeli forces conducted strikes against Iranian targets, after which Tehran responded with attacks on American military positions in the region.
Observers say developments around the Strait of Hormuz are being closely monitored due to their potential impact on global energy supply and regional security.
