By Suleman Chitera
Tensions in the Persian Gulf remain high after Iran announced that the strategic Strait of Hormuz is now open to international shipping—but not to the United States, Israel, or their allies.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi made the announcement on 14 March 2026, saying Tehran would allow vessels from most countries to pass through the critical waterway following days of disruption linked to escalating regional hostilities.
The strait, located between Iran and Oman, is widely regarded as the world’s most important oil shipping route, carrying roughly 20 percent of global crude supplies and a large share of liquefied natural gas exports.
Selective reopening
Shipping activity began cautiously resuming over the weekend. Two Indian-flagged tankers transporting liquefied petroleum gas crossed the strait safely on Saturday morning, while a Turkish vessel was also granted permission to transit. Iranian authorities additionally approved passage for a Saudi tanker carrying about one million barrels of oil bound for India.
Despite the partial reopening, Iran maintained restrictions on ships connected to the United States, Israel, and their partners, effectively giving Tehran control over which vessels can move through the chokepoint.
The waterway had been largely shut since early March after Iranian forces moved to block traffic following military strikes attributed to the United States and Israel. The closure immediately rattled global energy markets and sent oil prices surging above $100 per barrel.
Trump calls for naval coalition
Former U.S. President Donald Trump responded by urging the formation of a multinational naval coalition to guarantee freedom of navigation through the strait.
Trump suggested that countries heavily dependent on Gulf energy supplies—including China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom—should join efforts to ensure the shipping route remains open.
Oil flows continue despite tensions
Even during the shutdown, analysts say Iranian oil exports continued to reach China, often transported by older tankers operating quietly to avoid scrutiny.
Energy experts warn that prolonged instability around the Strait of Hormuz could have far-reaching consequences for the global economy. Any disruption to traffic through the narrow passage—through which millions of barrels of oil pass daily—can quickly drive up fuel prices and strain supply chains worldwide.
While some vessels are now moving again, the selective access policy announced by Tehran underscores how fragile the situation remains in one of the world’s most strategically important waterways.
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