Tehran/Islamabad, April 17, 2026 - Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has officially confirmed that all commercial vessels are now allowed to pass freely through the Strait of Hormuz, marking a significant de-escalation step following Pakistan's successful mediation.
Iranian FM Confirms Commercial Vessels Passage Allowed | Toni Waterman | Asia One News#Asiaone #EnglishNews #AsiaOneNews #Iran #StraitOfHormuz #Shipping pic.twitter.com/J6QPCFRqvq
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In a statement issued today, the Iranian Foreign Ministry said the decision to fully reopen the strategic waterway applies to all civilian and commercial shipping, regardless of nationality. The move comes just days after Iran announced the complete reopening of the strait in response to diplomatic efforts led by Pakistan.
Foreign Minister Araghchi emphasized that Iran remains committed to ensuring safe and uninterrupted navigation for international commerce while the fragile ceasefire remains in place. He described the decision as a "goodwill gesture" aimed at reducing tensions and supporting ongoing peace efforts.
The confirmation is expected to bring immediate relief to global shipping companies and energy markets. Insurance premiums for vessels transiting the region had surged dramatically in recent weeks due to fears of a full blockade. Several major tanker operators have already begun rerouting ships back to the shorter Hormuz route, which carries nearly 20% of the world's daily oil supply.
The development follows strong appreciation from US President Donald Trump, who publicly thanked Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Asim Munir for their mediation role. Trump described both leaders as "two fantastic people" for helping facilitate the breakthrough.
With the current two-week ceasefire approaching its April 22 expiration, Iranian officials indicated that the free passage of commercial vessels is intended to build confidence ahead of a possible second round of direct US-Iran talks, which could once again be hosted in Islamabad.
Analysts say this latest move significantly lowers immediate risks to global energy security and strengthens Pakistan's position as a trusted neutral mediator in the crisis.
