TEHRAN — Iran has declared the Strait of Hormuz “completely open” to commercial shipping for the duration of the ongoing ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, a move aimed at easing tensions in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the decision allows all commercial vessels to transit the strategic waterway along designated routes while the ceasefire remains in effect.
The announcement ties directly to the recently brokered 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, which has paused fighting involving Hezbollah and raised hopes of broader regional de-escalation.
A Lifeline for Global Energy Markets
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital global chokepoint through which roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply typically passes. In recent weeks, the route had been heavily restricted and, at times, effectively closed amid the conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
Iran’s declaration marks a significant shift, signaling a temporary easing of maritime tensions and offering relief to global shipping and energy markets.
As CNBC reported, oil prices reacted quickly to the news, falling sharply as traders anticipated a resumption of disrupted shipments:
President Donald Trump thanked Iran for opening the strait in a social media post. But Trump said the U.S. naval blockade of Iran’s ports will remain in effect until an agreement is reached with Tehran.
Oil prices plunged more than 11% after the announcement.
Israel and Lebanon agreed Thursday to a 10-day ceasefire starting at 5 p.m. ET that evening. Israel’s military campaign in Lebanon against the militant group Hezbollah, who are close allies of Iran, has been a sticking point in negotiations between Washington and Tehran.
Trump agreed to a two-week ceasefire on April 7 in exchange for Iran completely opening the strait. But Iran’s parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf accused the U.S. of violating the agreement by allowing Israel to continue its campaign in Lebanon.
A Conditional Reopening
Iran made clear that the reopening is conditional, applying only for the duration of the ceasefire. Ships are expected to follow pre-coordinated routes designated by Iranian authorities, reflecting ongoing security concerns in the region.
Despite the announcement, risks remain. Military forces across the region remain on high alert, and both Iran and Hezbollah have indicated they are prepared to respond if the ceasefire is violated.
Cease-Fire Creates Opening
The reopening comes after weeks of disruption in the strait, where naval tensions, mine threats, and military activity had reduced traffic to a fraction of normal levels and stranded hundreds of vessels.
The ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon — announced by Trump — appears to have created an opening for broader diplomatic efforts, including easing pressure on key trade routes.
Fragile Stability
For now, the Strait of Hormuz is moving again — and global markets are breathing a little easier.
But the situation is far from settled.
The stability of one of the world’s most important energy corridors now hinges on a short-term ceasefire in a volatile region. If it holds, there could be room for longer-term de-escalation.
If it doesn’t, the disruption could return just as quickly.
And with it, the economic consequences.
This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.
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