Iran said the Strait of Hormuz is fully open to commercial shipping for the rest of the Lebanon ceasefire, allowing merchant vessels to use the route designated by the Ports and Maritime Organization of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi announced the move on social media, linking it directly to the ceasefire in Lebanon. The ceasefire was brokered by the United States on 16 April 2026 for 10 days and involved Israel, the Lebanese government and US mediators in direct talks.
The decision followed weeks of escalation. Israel carried out sustained air strikes in Lebanon, including Beirut and other locations. During one intense phase of the campaign, reports said more than 100 targets were struck in about 10 minutes.
US President Donald Trump also confirmed the temporary reopening of Truth Social. In a separate post, he said the US Navy would continue blocking vessels bound for Iranian ports.
Commercial shipping through Hormuz had remained largely closed for more than six weeks after US and Israeli strikes on Iran on 28 February. Estimates from the International Maritime Organization show more than 1,600 vessels and 20,000 seafarers have been trapped in the Persian Gulf since late February.
The reopening applies for the remaining ceasefire period.
