War in the Middle East: Iran reopens the Strait of Hormuz, several countries including France want to launch a neutral mission for security

Iran announced on Friday the complete reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime route for global oil trade, as long as the ceasefire in the Middle East continues. This announcement came as a ceasefire between Israel and the pro-Iranian Hezbollah in Lebanon is being implemented, raising hopes of peace in the region. Tehran’s announcement was met with a 10% drop in oil prices and a rebound in European stock markets after five weeks of devastating war for the global economy.

Iran Announces Reopening of the Strait of Hormuz

Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s foreign minister, stated on Friday that “In connection with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage of all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is declared fully open for the remaining period of the ceasefire.”

Military ships movements are still prohibited, as stated by a senior Iranian military official. Only civilian vessels can pass through the designated routes with permission from the Revolutionary Guards navy.

Trump Says Iran Will Never Again Close the Strait

President Trump responded immediately, thanking Iran for its commitment to never close the strait again. He also mentioned that Iran, with U.S. assistance, is removing or has already removed all sea mines from the strait.

However, Trump clarified that the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports would remain in effect until the end of negotiations.

UN Secretary-General Welcomes the Strait’s Reopening

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres praised the reopening of the strait as a step in the right direction, emphasizing the importance of maintaining international navigation rights in the area.

Talks continue to set up a neutral security mission for the strait, with support from various countries, excluding belligerents.

Trump: ‘Very Close’ to an Agreement with Iran

Negotiations between Tehran and Washington are ongoing, and Trump stated that there are no obstacles to reaching a peace agreement with Iran. He mentioned that a written agreement is in progress.

Despite progress in talks with Iran, Trump emphasized that an agreement with Lebanon was separate, marking the first time since the start of the conflict that all fronts have been quiet.