Non-hostile ships can navigate the Hormuz Strait under its condition
Iran stated that foreign vessels may navigate the Strait of Hormuz, provided they do not engage in actions that could be perceived as aggression against the nation and adhere to the regulations established by Tehran. The nation expressed its views in a letter distributed to members of the International Maritime Organization on Tuesday, stating that countries could gain from safe passage “in co-ordination with the competent Iranian authorities.” The IMO stated that the original letter from Iran was dated March 22.
Iran has begun imposing transit fees on certain commercial vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz, according to sources, marking a significant indication of its authority over the globe’s most crucial maritime energy passage. The conflict in West Asia has nearly halted traffic through the waterway — only a few vessels seem to have navigated through by following a path close to the Iranian coastline. While Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has already stated that Iran should maintain the closure of the strait, the letter articulates a clearer and more nuanced position. It stands as yet another instance of the nation asserting its sovereignty over the waterway, as the conflict enters its fourth week.
The near-halt to ship transits via Hormuz — through which approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas, along with significant quantities of food, metals, and other materials are transported daily — has caused the prices of essential commodities to surge. In Asia, a region significantly dependent on energy imports, billions of individuals are facing gas outages and bracing for fuel rationing. Commodities markets have experienced significant volatility as traders attempt to assess the timeline for the conclusion of the war and the reopening of Hormuz. Despite oil’s rise on Tuesday amid heightened concerns over a worsening conflict, futures could drop sharply at any indication that vessels might navigate the waterway with greater ease.
In a letter issued on Tuesday, Iran stated, “non-hostile vessels, including those belonging to or associated with other states, may – provided that they neither participate in nor support acts of aggression against Iran and fully comply with the declared safety and security regulations — benefit from safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz in co-ordination with the competent Iranian authorities.” The Islamic Republic stated it “restricted the passage of vessels belonging to or associated with the aggressors and those participating in their acts of aggression.” The statement emphasized that the complete restoration of security and stability in the Strait hinges on the cessation of military threats in the region.
