According to CNN, it is now unclear exactly what goods Iran defines as “essential necessities.” It is also unclear whether ships from countries Tehran considers hostile will continue to be blocked.
In a document addressed to the head of the Iranian Ports and Maritime Transport Organization, Khoumani Fathi, the deputy for commercial development said that “vessels carrying important goods – especially basic products and raw materials for livestock – are allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.”
An Iranian official said the order applies to “vessels that are heading to Iranian ports or currently operating in the region.”
Context
Shipping via strait – one of the most important routes of world oil trade – has practically stopped since March 1 against the backdrop of the war between the United States and Israel with Iran.
On March 10, information appeared in the media that Iran had allegedly begun mining the Strait of Hormuz. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the US Navy would escort tankers of companies that cooperate with the Americans through the strait.
On March 14, US President Donald Trump called on China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK and other countries to send their ships to create conditions of openness and security in the Strait of Hormuz.
On April 2, Euronews reported that more than 40 countries announced the creation of a coalition to ensure free and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz after the end of the hot phase of the war between the United States, Israel and Iran.
Trump said on April 4 that Iran has 48 hours left to open the Strait of Hormuz or conclude an agreement with the White House. Otherwise, he promised Iran “real hell.”
