Friday, April 17, 2026

World News

Hormuz Strait fully open to commercial shipping during ceasefire, Iran says

Iran has announced the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping lanes, for the remainder of its ongoing ceasefire.

TAS News Services

info@thearabianstories.com

Friday, April 17, 2026

Tehran: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that the Strait of Hormuz has been “declared completely open” for all commercial vessels during the remaining period of the ceasefire.

Posting on X, Araghchi stated that the decision aligns with the broader ceasefire in Lebanon, allowing safe passage for ships through designated and coordinated routes previously outlined by Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organisation.

The development comes after weeks of heightened tensions, during which Iran had effectively shut down the strategically vital waterway following a US-Israeli attack on Iran in February.

Earlier this week, the United States had announced plans to initiate a naval blockade in the region, escalating concerns over a wider conflict.

The current Iran-US ceasefire, which has temporarily eased regional tensions, is set to expire on April 22, leaving uncertainty over the long-term stability of maritime operations in the Gulf.

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