Iran has announced that the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil routes, is now open for commercial vessels during the ongoing ceasefire period.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi shared the update, saying the passage will remain open for all commercial ships for the “remaining period of ceasefire”.
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, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran.
— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) April 17, 2026
However, ships will have to follow specific routes set by Iran’s Ports and Maritime Organization, showing that movement will still be controlled.
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It is not fully clear whether this decision relates to the recent Lebanon-Israel ceasefire or the earlier two-week truce between Iran and the United States.
US President Donald Trump welcomed the move and simply wrote “THANK YOU!” on social media, signaling approval of the development.
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) April 17, 2026
Despite this, Trump also confirmed that the US naval blockade on ships heading to Iranian ports will continue.
He said the Strait is open for global trade, but restrictions on Iran will stay until a complete agreement is reached between both sides. The Strait of Hormuz is extremely important because nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas supply passes through this narrow waterway.
The recent conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran had disrupted this route, raising fears of a major global energy crisis. Following Iran’s announcement, oil prices dropped by about 9 percent, giving some relief to global markets.
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At the same time, the International Monetary Fund warned that if the conflict continues, the world economy could face serious risks, including a possible recession. Talks between Iran and the US are still expected, but uncertainty remains about when and where they will take place.
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) April 17, 2026
Even though the Strait is now open, the situation in the region is still tense, and further developments will depend on future negotiations.
