Iran temporarily reopened the Strait of Hormuz on Friday following a ceasefire agreement in Lebanon, sparking cautious optimism for peace despite warnings that the waterway could be closed again if a U.S. Navy blockade continues.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi announced that the strategic chokepoint is now open to all commercial vessels for the duration of a 10-day truce between Israel and Hezbollah.
The U.S.-brokered ceasefire follows the Israeli invasion of Lebanon, which began after Hezbollah joined the conflict on February 28.
U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking at a rally in Arizona, hailed the reopening as “a great and brilliant day for the world.” However, he clarified that the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports—enacted after recent negotiations failed—would remain in place until “our transaction with Iran is 100% complete.”
Rising Tensions and Shipping Uncertainty
Despite the announcement, maritime operations remained disrupted. Roughly 20 vessels attempted to transit the Gulf toward the strait, but most turned back.
Iran introduced new transit requirements, mandating coordination with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Military vessels and ships linked to “hostile forces”—specifically the U.S. and Israel—remain prohibited from passage.
Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf warned that the strait “will not remain open” if the U.S. blockade persists, accusing President Trump of making false claims about peace talks.
Nuclear Program Deadlock
The future of Iran’s nuclear program remains a major obstacle to permanent peace.
- U.S. Position: Trump stated the U.S. intends to “remove Iran’s stockpiles of enriched uranium.”
- Iranian Position: Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei countered that the material “would not be transferred anywhere.”
Hope for Extension
Despite friction, senior Iranian officials expressed hope that a preliminary agreement could be reached in the coming days to extend the ceasefire.
Such an extension would allow more time for negotiations on lifting economic sanctions and potential compensation for war damages.