Iran signals partial reopening of Strait of Hormuz, but on one condition
Photo: Iran may reopen part of the Strait of Hormuz (Getty Images)
Iran is considering allowing ships to pass freely through the Omani side of the Strait of Hormuz as part of negotiations with the United States. But only on condition that an agreement is reached to prevent the resumption of the conflict, reports Reuters.
According to the agency’s source, Tehran may be ready to allow vessels to use the other side of the narrow strait in Omani waters without interference from Iran.
It is not specified whether this also concerns the clearing of possible mines in this area or guarantees of free passage for all vessels, including those linked to Israel.
However, this proposal depends on whether Washington is ready to meet Tehran’s demands.
The Reuters source notes that it is still unclear whether Iran will also agree to clear any mines it may have placed in this section of water, or whether free passage will be allowed for all vessels — even those linked to Israel.
Blocking of the Strait of Hormuz
At the beginning of the war between the United States and Israel against Iran, Tehran blocked the Strait of Hormuz. This triggered a large-scale oil crisis worldwide, which caused fuel prices to rise.
US President Donald Trump even called on NATO allies to help him unblock the Strait of Hormuz, but they refused, which caused outrage from the American leader and further statements about withdrawing from NATO.
Tehran stated in its justification that the Strait of Hormuz is open, but only for vessels from countries not hostile to Iran.
After the start of the ceasefire with the United States, Iran opened the Strait of Hormuz but almost immediately closed it again. Tehran cited Israel’s bombing of Lebanon as the reason for this decision.
Although information appeared in the media that Iran simply cannot locate its own mines and neutralize them.
On April 11, talks between the United States and Iran on the nuclear program took place in Pakistan. The sides failed to reach a result — Tehran rejected the demands of the American side.
After the failure of the talks, Trump announced a naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. He stated that American ships would intercept all vessels that paid Iran a transit fee.
And yesterday, April 15, Trump said that he is opening the Strait of Hormuz forever.
