Iran: Strait of Hormuz 'Completely Open' as Lebanon Ceasefire Holds

Tempo.co reports on a significant development in international relations and energy markets: Iran's declaration that the Strait of Hormuz is "completely open" for commercial vessels amidst a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. This move, announced by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, signals a potential de-escalation following a protracted US-Israeli war on Iran, which began in late February and has claimed over 3,000 lives.

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In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire.

The timing of Iran's announcement is notable, as U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that a deal to end the conflict was imminent. Trump echoed Iran's statement, asserting the strait was "completely open and ready for business," while emphasizing that the U.S. naval blockade would persist until a formal agreement was reached. He further stated that Iran had pledged "never to close the Strait of Hormuz again," framing it as a move to prevent the waterway from being used "as a weapon against the World."

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the strait was 'completely open and ready for business and full passage', but said the US naval blockade of Iran would 'remain in full force' until Tehran reached a deal with Washington to end the war.

The immediate impact of these declarations was a sharp decline in oil prices, with Brent crude dropping over 11 percent. This underscores the Strait of Hormuz's critical role as a chokepoint for global energy supplies, with roughly one-fifth of the world's oil and LNG shipments passing through it. The article also notes that a senior Iranian military official clarified that only non-military vessels would be permitted passage, subject to approval by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy, indicating continued security considerations despite the opening.

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It will no longer be used as a weapon against the World!