BANGKOK — Thailand has urged Iran to ensure the safe passage of eight Thai-flagged vessels stranded near the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing restrictions in the strategic waterway, Thai media reported.The request was made by Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow during a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the BRICS foreign ministers meeting in New Delhi on Thursday, according to the Thai Enquirer news website.During the discussions, Sihasak expressed concern over the escalating Middle East conflict and its global economic impact, particularly navigation restrictions affecting the Strait of Hormuz, where vessels from several countries remain stranded.According to the report, Araghchi acknowledged Thailand’s concerns and stressed the importance of reopening the key maritime route.The Iranian foreign minister also expressed optimism that the blockade would be lifted once a peace agreement is reached between Iran and the United States.Sihasak informed the Iranian side that Thailand plans to send humanitarian assistance, including medicines and medical supplies, to Iran through Oman in the near future.Regional tensions have intensified since the United States and Israel launched strikes against Iran on Feb. 28, prompting attacks by Tehran against Israel and US allies in the Gulf region, alongside the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.A ceasefire took effect on April 8 through Pakistani mediation efforts, but negotiations held later in Islamabad failed to secure a lasting agreement. US President Donald Trump later announced an indefinite extension of the truce.
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