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Iran has formally notified the United Nations Security Council and the International Maritime Organization that non-hostile vessels are permitted to navigate the Strait of Hormuz safely. This assurance comes amid heightened regional tensions.

The declaration was made through a note verbale from Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which was subsequently distributed to the 176 member states of the UN's maritime agency based in London. The note was addressed to the 15-member Security Council and UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

Iran's Position on Navigation

According to the official communication, non-military vessels, including those belonging to or associated with other nations, can transit the Strait of Hormuz under the coordination of Iranian authorities. This access is contingent upon two key conditions: the vessels must not participate in or support acts of aggression against Iran, and they must fully comply with established safety regulations.

Navigational Rights and Restrictions

Iran emphasized that it has taken necessary and proportionate measures to prevent aggressors and their supporters from utilizing the Strait of Hormuz for hostile operations against the country. However, the note explicitly states that vessels, equipment, or any property belonging to the United States or Israel, as well as those involved in aggression, do not have the right to peaceful or non-hostile passage.

The strategic Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global energy transport. Reports indicate that approximately one-fifth of the world's oil and LNG supply transits through this waterway. Tensions in the region have previously led to disruptions in these shipments, causing market volatility.

This development follows previous statements by U.S. President Donald Trump, who suggested that the Strait of Hormuz could be reopened soon if diplomatic talks between the U.S. and Iran were successful.