Iran Says Strait of Hormuz Open to All Non-Hostile Vessels, Assures Safe Passage

New Delhi, May 2026 : Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Friday asserted that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for international shipping, except for vessels belonging to countries currently engaged in conflict with Iran, while reaffirming Tehran’s commitment to ensuring safe maritime navigation in the strategically vital waterway.

Addressing a press conference in New Delhi after participating in the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Araghchi said Iran has continued facilitating the passage of vessels through the Strait despite heightened tensions in West Asia and has already assisted several Indian ships in navigating the region safely.

“The Strait of Hormuz is open and all vessels can pass, except the vessels of those countries that are fighting with us,” the Iranian Foreign Minister stated while responding to questions regarding recent comments made by the United States and China on Iran’s nuclear programme and regional security.

He explained that ships seeking passage are required to coordinate with Iranian military authorities because of the presence of mines and other obstacles created amid the ongoing conflict situation in the region.

“Those vessels that want to pass should obviously coordinate with our military because of the mines and obstacles which exist. We will guide them to pass, as we have done for a number of Indian vessels, and help them to pass safely,” Araghchi said.

He stressed that ensuring safe navigation through the Strait remains both a policy priority and a strategic interest for Tehran.

“The safe passage of all vessels is our policy and our interest, and we are ready to help those who want to pass safely and securely,” he added.

The Strait of Hormuz, which links the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman, is regarded as one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, carrying nearly 20 per cent of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas supplies. The ongoing tensions in West Asia have raised concerns across international energy markets, leading to sharp fluctuations in oil and gas prices.

Araghchi also addressed concerns surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme, reiterating that Tehran has no intention of developing nuclear weapons and remains committed to maintaining a peaceful nuclear programme.

“Iran has never wanted nuclear weapons. We proved that when we signed the nuclear deal in 2015, and we have repeatedly stated that nuclear weapons are not part of our policy,” he said.

The Iranian Minister pointed out that Iran has consistently expressed willingness to build international confidence regarding the peaceful nature of its nuclear activities.

“We have a peaceful nuclear programme and we have always been ready to build confidence that this programme is peaceful and will remain peaceful,” he remarked.

Referring to the ongoing hostilities in the region, Araghchi accused the United States of contributing to insecurity and instability in West Asia.

“The situation today is not like before because of aggression and the blockade imposed against us. But once the aggression ends, everything will return to normal,” he said.

He further stated that Iran, in coordination with Oman, is working to ensure that maritime trade routes remain functional and secure despite the prevailing conflict conditions.

“We make arrangements for the safe passage of all vessels from the Strait of Hormuz together with Oman,” he added.

Araghchi arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday for a three-day official visit, marking Tehran’s first major diplomatic outreach following the escalation of conflict in West Asia. During the visit, he held discussions with Indian leaders and participated in the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, where regional security, trade and geopolitical developments were among the key issues discussed.

The continuing tensions in West Asia and uncertainty surrounding shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remain a major concern for global economies heavily dependent on energy imports, including India.

Team Maverick