In a significant development amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, an Iranian military official stated via state television that military vessels are not permitted to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. This announcement comes as Iran simultaneously declares the strategic waterway completely open for all commercial vessels during the remaining period of a ceasefire linked to Lebanon.
Latest Announcements from Iran
On Friday, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire.”
He emphasized that ships should use the coordinated route already announced by Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organization.
However, Iranian state TV and a senior military official clarified that this opening applies exclusively to commercial (civilian) vessels.
Trump’s Response and U.S. Position
U.S. President Donald Trump responded promptly, stating:
“THE STRAIT OF HORMUZ IS COMPLETELY OPEN AND READY FOR BUSINESS AND FULL PASSAGE, BUT THE NAVAL BLOCKADE WILL REMAIN IN FULL FORCE AND EFFECT AS IT PERTAINS TO IRAN, ONLY, UNTIL SUCH TIME AS OUR TRANSACTION WITH IRAN IS 100% COMPLETE. THIS PROCESS SHOULD GO VERY QUICKLY IN THAT MOST OF THE POINTS ARE ALREADY NEGOTIATED.”
Background on the Strait of Hormuz Crisis
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow chokepoint between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, is one of the world’s most critical maritime routes. It handles about 20-30% of global oil trade, making any disruption a major concern for energy markets, shipping insurance, and international trade.
Tensions escalated earlier in 2026 following the U.S.-Iran conflict that began in late February. Iran had effectively restricted passage, issuing warnings through the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that military vessels would face a “firm response.” State media reported that only non-military vessels could transit under specific regulations and coordination with Iranian authorities.
This stance aligns with Iran’s position that it maintains sovereignty over parts of the strait while allowing “non-hostile” or commercial traffic under controlled conditions.