Iran Allows More Ships Through Strait of Hormuz for Friendly Nations

Amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghtchi announced that Iran is permitting increased ship traffic through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Speaking on Friday, Araghtchi clarified that this openness applies specifically to vessels from "friendly countries," while restrictions remain in place for nations Iran considers enemies. Iranian state television reported that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is coordinating with naval forces to facilitate these transits, with over 30 ships authorized in the previous twenty-four hours, including several Chinese vessels. Officials stated that many countries have accepted new legal protocols established by Iran for the waterway. This development follows earlier announcements in April that Tehran had begun collecting revenues from passage fees. The situation remains volatile, as evidenced by continued violence in Lebanon, where Israeli strikes have killed civil defense rescuers despite a purported ceasefire. Araghtchi framed Iran's stance as resistance against US intimidation, calling for collective mobilization against such coercion during the BRICS summit in New Delhi.