Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has announced that commercial vessels can safely pass through the Strait of Hormuz following a ceasefire agreement related to the ongoing conflict in Lebanon.
In a statement shared on social media, Araghchi said that after Israel agreed to halt military operations in Lebanon, “the route is now open for commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz for the entire duration of the ceasefire, via channels approved by Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organization.”
Clashes between Israel and Hezbollah, the Iran-backed group based in Lebanon, began on March 2. The conflict has reportedly claimed more than 2,100 lives and left thousands injured.
Iran had earlier stated that it would only support a proposed two-week ceasefire backed by the United States if hostilities in Lebanon were also brought to an end.
Israel and Lebanon later confirmed that a ceasefire would begin on April 16 and last for 10 days, as a step toward restoring stability and advancing peace efforts in the region.
Despite the agreement, Israel warned that it reserves the right to end the ceasefire if its security is threatened.
The truce has prompted Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, at least temporarily. The strategic waterway handles about 20% of the world’s oil supply and is crucial for major economies including Japan, China, South Korea, and India.
