Iran on Friday said that the Strait of Hormuz is now open for all commercial vessels for the remaining duration of the ceasefire. The decision comes in line with the ceasefire agreement linked to the Israel-Lebanon conflict.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi shared the update on X.
“In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran.”
In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran.
— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) April 17, 2026
Trump Responds, Thanks Iran
Soon after the announcement, Donald Trump reacted on Truth Social. He acknowledged Iran’s move and expressed appreciation. “Iran has just announced that the strait of Iran is fully open and ready for full passage. Thank you," he wrote.
Ceasefire Between Israel and Lebanon
This development follows Trump’s earlier statement that Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a 10-day ceasefire. The pause in hostilities is expected to create space for further negotiations under US support.
US Maintains Naval Blockade on Iran
Despite Iran reopening the strait, the United States has decided to continue its naval blockade on Iranian ports. The blockade was imposed earlier after Iran restricted access to the vital waterway.
Trump made it clear that the restrictions will remain until a final agreement is reached with Tehran.
“The naval blockade will remain in full force and effect as it pertains to Iran, only, until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete,” Trump wrote, adding that “this process should go very quickly.”
Ceasefire Period and Ongoing Diplomacy
Araghchi clarified that the Strait of Hormuz will stay open only for the duration of the ceasefire. The Lebanon truce came into effect early Friday (India time).
At the same time, the ceasefire between the US and Iran is expected to end early next week. Diplomatic efforts are ongoing to extend peace.
Trump has said that both sides are close to reaching an agreement. Meanwhile, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth urged Iran to “choose wisely”.
Talks May Take Place Soon
Trump said on Thursday that a deal to end the conflict could come “soon”. He mentioned that talks might begin as early as the weekend.
However, by Friday, it appeared difficult to organise the meeting quickly. Officials are expected to gather in Islamabad for discussions, but logistical challenges may delay the process.
Conflict Impact on Region and Oil Supply
The ongoing conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran began on February 28. It has caused heavy casualties and increased instability across West Asia. The situation also led to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This route is critical, as nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passes through it.
The disruption raised fears of a major global oil crisis.