Iran and the United States on Friday said the Strait of Hormuz has been reopened and is fully operational for commercial shipping after nearly seven weeks of disruption that had affected global energy trade.
US President Donald Trump announced on social media that the strategic waterway is “IRAN HAS JUST ANNOUNCED THAT THE STRAIT OF IRAN IS FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR FULL PASSAGE. THANK YOU!,” while Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that commercial vessels would be allowed to pass in line with the ongoing ceasefire arrangement, reports South China Morning Post.
Araghchi said ships would be required to follow designated routes set by Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organisation.
The announcement comes alongside a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, under which passage through the strait will remain open for the duration of the truce.
Trump, however, said US naval blockade on Iranian vessels and supplies would remain in place until a final agreement is reached.
The apparent breakthrough eased market concerns, with oil prices falling nearly 10 percent following the announcement.
Cox’s Bazar Life Desk/UNB
