US President Donald Trump has shared Iran’s message that the Strait of Hormuz is open, after Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also posted on X on April 17, saying it is open in line with the ceasefire in Lebanon. ALSO READ: Petrol price increases by over Rwf600 The strait had been blocked, first by Iranian forces during the war with the US and Israel. Iran had also declined to reopen it even after a two-week ceasefire with the US was reached earlier this month. After the two sides met in Pakistan but failed to reach a peace deal, the US declared a blockade of the strait. The move took effect on April 13, barring Iranian oil tankers, as well as other vessels, from passing through. The blockade was enforced impartially against vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, including all Iranian ports on the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. Now, after about four days of the blockade, Iran’s foreign minister shared on X: “In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire, on the coordinated route as already announced by Ports and Maritime Organisation of the Islamic Rep. of Iran.” Recently, the US declared a ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon, where Israel had been engaging in combat activities against Hezbollah. The US is also expected to soon welcome Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his Lebanese counterpart for talks. Iran has just announced that the strait of Iran is fully open and ready for full passage. Thank you!” Trump also shared the news on Truth Social, which was also shared by the White House on X. The blocking of the strait had caused oil prices to rise in many countries.
