Iran Denies Strait Of Hormuz Closure Reports, Says Shipping Continues Normally

The Strait of Hormuz is still open and commercial shipping is operating normally, Iran said on Friday, rejecting reports that the key waterway had been closed again.

The clarification is important for global trade because the Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical shipping routes, carrying around one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.

Any disruption in the passage is closely watched by energy markets and shipping companies worldwide.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei, speaking through state broadcaster Press TV, called the reports “baseless” and said they did not reflect the situation on the ground.

He said shipping continues normally following a ceasefire memorandum signed with the United States on June 18.

The agreement was signed electronically between United States President Donald Trump and Iran President Masoud Pezeshkian, aiming to reduce tensions after months of conflict.

Per reports, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) ordered the strait closed again and accused the United States of violating the agreement.

Under the deal’s Clause 5, Iran has agreed to help ensure safe passage for commercial ships through the Strait of Hormuz and nearby waters.

Ships moving between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman will not be charged for 60 days after the agreement was signed.

Shipping is also expected to resume fully while Iran works to clear navigation hazards left from the conflict, including demining operations, which are expected to be completed within 30 days.

Iran, Oman, and other Gulf states will also hold talks on how the strait should be managed in the future.

Even though Iran says the strait is open, authorities have added a new requirement for ships.

The Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) said vessels must now submit transit requests at least 48 hours before entering the area. This is meant to avoid delays when entering or leaving the strait.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most important energy routes in the world. It is a narrow passage used by oil and gas tankers travelling from Gulf producers to global markets.

Because of this, any change in access or rules can quickly affect global shipping costs and energy supply expectations.

References: firstpost, news18