Tehran opens Hormuz passage for Philippine vessels in strategic move
Illustrative photo: Iran allows Philippine-flagged vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz (Getty Images)
The Iranian government has allowed vessels flying the Philippine flag to safely pass through the Strait of Hormuz. This came as a result of a conversation between the foreign ministers of the Philippines and Iran, according to Reuters.
“During the call, the Iranian Foreign Minister assured the Secretary that Iran will allow the safe, unhindered, and expeditious passage through the Strait of Hormuz of Philippine-flagged vessels, energy sources, and all Filipino seafarers,” the Philippine Foreign Ministry said.
The agency notes that this permission will strengthen the Philippines’ energy security, as the country imports most of its energy resources from the Middle East.
“The Philippines imports almost all of its crude from the Middle East, with Saudi Arabia its biggest supplier, making it vulnerable to oil price shocks and supply disruptions,” Reuters writes.
Iran has made similar decisions before. In particular, Tehran has previously allowed passage through the Strait of Hormuz for vessels not belonging to “hostile countries.”
Situation around the Strait of Hormuz
After the start of US and Israeli operations against Iran, Tehran blocked the Strait of Hormuz — a key global “energy artery.” About 20% of global oil consumption and a significant share of liquefied gas pass through this narrow route.
It is worth noting that The Wall Street Journal reported that US President Donald Trump told his aides he is ready to end the war with Iran, even if the Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed.
Later, Trump said the war with Iran is likely to end soon, adding that countries using the Strait could reopen it on their own.
