TEHRAN — Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Sunday that the Strait of Hormuz remains open, attributing disruptions in shipping to fears linked to the ongoing US-Israeli attacks rather than any formal closure by Tehran.“The Strait of Hormuz is not closed. Ships hesitate because insurers fear the war of choice you initiated not Iran,” Araghchi said in a post on X.He added that threats would not influence Iran’s position, stating that freedom of navigation depends on respect for broader trade principles.In a separate statement, Iran’s Foreign Ministry reiterated that the strategic waterway is “not blocked,” but warned that vessels belonging to countries involved in hostilities would not be treated as normal traffic and could face measures in line with wartime legal frameworks.Despite these statements, the strait has been effectively restricted since early March, with most commercial traffic avoiding the route.The disruption has increased shipping and insurance costs, pushed oil prices higher, and raised concerns across global markets.The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global energy corridor, handling around 20 million barrels of oil per day and roughly 20% of global liquefied natural gas trade.On Saturday, US President Donald Trump warned that Washington could target Iran’s energy infrastructure if the passage is not fully reopened, escalating tensions further.Regional hostilities have intensified since US and Israeli strikes on Iran began on Feb. 28, with Tehran responding through drone and missile attacks targeting Israel and Gulf countries.
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