Iran Lifts All Restrictions on Iraqi Ship Passage Through Strait of Hormuz

TEHRAN, April 4 (AP) — Iran announced Friday that it has lifted all restrictions on the passage of Iraqi ships through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a move Tehran described as a gesture of goodwill toward its neighbor.

The Iranian government declared the decision effective immediately, removing previous limitations that had constrained Iraqi maritime traffic in the waterway. The Strait of Hormuz serves as a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies, with approximately 20 million barrels of oil passing through the narrow channel daily. For years, the passage of vessels has been subject to varying degrees of regulation and security protocols enforced by Iranian authorities.

Tehran framed the policy shift as a diplomatic gift to the Iraqi people, emphasizing regional cooperation and shared economic interests. Iraqi officials welcomed the announcement, noting that the removal of barriers would facilitate smoother trade operations and reduce transit times for commercial vessels. The decision comes amid ongoing efforts to strengthen economic ties between the two nations, which share a long border and significant historical connections.

The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. It is one of the world's most important maritime passages, particularly for oil exports from major producers including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Iraq. Any disruption in the strait has the potential to cause significant fluctuations in global energy markets.

Iranian officials stated that the new policy applies to all Iraqi-flagged vessels without exception. The move marks a significant departure from previous practices, where Iraqi ships faced inspections and delays at various points along the route. While the Iranian government has not provided detailed explanations for the timing of the decision, analysts suggest it may be linked to broader regional diplomatic initiatives.

Iraq's Ministry of Transport confirmed receipt of the notification and indicated that Iraqi shipping companies would begin adjusting their logistics schedules accordingly. The ministry emphasized that the change would benefit Iraq's export sector, particularly its oil shipments, which constitute a major portion of the country's revenue.

Security protocols in the strait remain in place for all other vessels, with Iranian naval forces continuing to monitor maritime traffic. The announcement did not address whether similar restrictions on other nations' ships would be reviewed or adjusted in the future.

Regional observers are monitoring the situation closely, noting that the strait has been a flashpoint for tensions in the past. The removal of restrictions on Iraqi ships could set a precedent for future policy changes, though no additional announcements have been made regarding other maritime traffic.

Questions remain about the long-term implications of the decision and whether it represents a broader shift in Iran's approach to maritime security in the region. Iranian officials have not indicated whether the policy will be permanent or subject to future review based on changing circumstances.