Tehran, March 15, 2026 — Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has asserted that the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz remains open to global maritime traffic, with the sole exception of ships and tankers belonging to the United States and Israel, as tensions escalate in the U.S.-Iran-Israel war now in its third week.
In a Saturday interview with MS NOW, Araghchi stated: “As a matter of fact, the Strait of Hormuz is open. It is only closed to the tankers and ships belonging to our enemies, to those who are attacking us and the allies. Others are free to pass.” He reiterated, “And I can say that the Strait is not closed, but it is only closed to American, Israeli ships and tankers, and not to others.”
The comments come less than a day after the United States conducted airstrikes on military targets at Iran's Kharg Island, a critical hub handling 90% of the country's oil exports. U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed the operation, emphasizing that it targeted Iranian military sites rather than energy infrastructure.
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow chokepoint linking the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, handles roughly one-fifth of global oil and significant liquefied natural gas shipments. Disruptions there have already driven oil prices sharply higher, with Brent crude surging amid reports of halted maritime traffic and attacks on vessels since the conflict began on February 28.
Araghchi's selective blockade claim appears aimed at isolating Washington and Tel Aviv while reassuring other nations. Reports indicate that two Indian-flagged LPG tankers successfully transited the strait early Saturday and are en route to India, with New Delhi's Ports and Shipping Minister confirming safe passage. However, the UK Maritime Trade Operations has documented 16 attacks on ships in the Gulf and strait since the war's outset.
In response, Trump has urged allies—including China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom—to deploy warships alongside U.S. forces to secure the waterway, warning that any interference with free passage would prompt a strong reconsideration of U.S. policy. He has also threatened further action against Iranian oil facilities if safe shipping is not restored.
Iran has warned of retaliation if its energy infrastructure is hit, with Araghchi stating that Iranian forces could target U.S.-linked companies or facilities in the region while exercising caution to avoid civilian areas.
The development heightens concerns over global energy security, as nations across Asia, Europe, and beyond rely on the strait for uninterrupted oil flows. Analysts note that even partial restrictions could prolong volatility in markets already strained by the Middle East conflict.
This latest Iranian position underscores the high stakes in the waterway, where military escalation risks broader economic fallout far beyond the region.
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