Tehran, Iran. Iran’s foreign minister said the Strait of Hormuz had reopened to commercial shipping under a ceasefire linked to the Lebanon conflict, as US President Donald Trump said talks to end the war with Iran could take place “soon”.
Announcement tied to truce
Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said in a post on X that the strait was “open for all commercial vessels” for the duration of a US-brokered 10-day truce agreed on Thursday between Israel and Lebanon to halt fighting with Iran-backed Hezbollah.
US response and continued restrictions
Trump said, “IRAN HAS JUST ANNOUNCED THAT THE STRAIT OF IRAN IS FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR PASSAGE,” while adding that a US blockade on ships heading to Iranian ports would remain in place until “our transaction with Iran is 100% complete”.
Disruption and shipping uncertainty
The developments follow weeks of disruption in a maritime route that typically carries around 20 per cent of global oil and gas flows. The conflict had effectively halted traffic through the strait, raising concerns over a potential global energy shock.
Uncertainty remains over how quickly shipping can resume. The US Navy warned that the risk of sea mines in parts of the waterway is “not fully understood”, advising caution, while shipping companies said they would require further clarification before resuming transit.
Iran warnings and coordination requirements
Iran signalled it would respond to continued restrictions, with foreign ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei warning of “necessary reciprocal measures” if maritime blockades persist. A senior Iranian official said vessels would be allowed passage only under coordination with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Nuclear talks and diplomatic track
Trump said Washington is seeking a broader agreement with Tehran, including measures related to Iran’s nuclear programme. “We’re going to go in with Iran… and bring it back to the United States,” he said, referring to enriched uranium stockpiles.
Iranian officials said “no agreement has been reached on the details of the nuclear issues”, adding that “serious negotiations” are still required. They also cited indications of progress, with both sides “agreeing in principle” and discussions ongoing over sanctions relief and the unfreezing of Iranian assets.
Diplomatic efforts are expected to continue, with a possible meeting in Islamabad under mediation by Pakistan, though logistical challenges may delay talks. A preliminary agreement could be reached in the coming days, with the possibility of extending the ceasefire to allow further negotiations.
Market reaction and ceasefire status
Oil prices fell around 10 per cent following the announcement, while global stock markets rose. The ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon largely held on Friday, despite reports of isolated incidents, as international efforts continued to stabilise the region and restore secure maritime transit.
What do you expect will determine when commercial shipping resumes normal transit through the Strait of Hormuz?
