Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared the Strait of Hormuz open to all commercial vessels during a BRICS summit, but stressed they must “cooperate” with Iranian naval forces to pass through the vital waterway.
Speaking at the gathering of emerging economies, Araghchi said the strategically crucial chokepoint—handling about 20% of global oil—remains accessible for trade, provided ships follow Iran’s coordinated routes and naval protocols.
The announcement comes amid ongoing U.S.-Iran tensions, Hormuz blockades, and diplomatic talks for a broader deal, offering a potential easing of shipping disruptions that have spiked oil prices and hit global supply chains.
“This is Iran’s position: the Strait is open to all commercial ships as long as they cooperate with our navy,” Araghchi stated, underscoring Tehran’s control over the 33-km-wide passage linking the Gulf to the Arabian Sea.instagram+1
Iranian officials framed it as a goodwill gesture aligned with BRICS principles of multipolar cooperation, while rejecting any “unilateral” interference in regional waters.
Shipping experts welcomed the signal but cautioned on the condition. “It’s a step toward normalcy for tankers and freighters, but ‘cooperation’ likely means inspections or escorts—adding time and costs,” said a Gulf maritime analyst.
Markets reacted positively, with Brent crude dipping slightly as traders bet on smoother flows for Asia-bound energy cargoes vital to India, China, and Japan.
The U.S. has kept a naval presence in the area despite Trump’s recent comments on pursuing a “good deal” with Tehran, and Washington is likely to scrutinize what Tehran’s cooperation demands entail.
BRICS partners, including Russia and China, have backed Iran’s stance on navigation rights, amplifying the message at a forum challenging Western-led security norms.
This calibrated opening could unlock billions in trade and stabilize energy costs, but it also spotlights the fragile balance: one misstep in enforcement could reignite closures and economic shocks worldwide.
