Iran has announced that amidst escalating tensions in West Asia, it will permit vessels from five friendly nations, including India, to navigate the crucial Strait of Hormuz without restrictions. The countries granted safe passage through this strategic maritime route are Russia, China, Pakistan, Iraq, and India. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi clarified in an interview with Iranian state television that while the strait has not been entirely closed, certain nations with positive relations with Iran have been exempted from restrictions.
Araghchi highlighted that Iran has authorized the passage of vessels from China, Russia, India, Iraq, and Pakistan, emphasizing that these countries are considered friendly. However, he made it clear that ships from countries deemed as adversaries or involved in the ongoing conflict, such as the United States, Israel, and some Gulf nations, will not be allowed to transit through the strait. Iran’s Foreign Minister expressed satisfaction with the country’s control over the vital waterway, asserting Iran’s authority in the region after years of presence.
Furthermore, Araghchi pointed out that despite initial skepticism when Iran announced a partial blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, subsequent events have demonstrated Iran’s ability to enforce its stance and maintain control over one of the world’s most critical energy transit routes.
