Iran Allows ‘Non-Hostile’ Ships to Sail Through Strait of Hormuz: What This Means for Business and Trade in Oman
Iran has informed the United Nations’ International Maritime Organization (IMO) that vessels deemed “non-hostile” may safely navigate the Strait of Hormuz. This vital waterway has effectively been closed to tankers since the U.S.-Israeli military campaign commenced last month.
In a letter distributed to IMO members on Tuesday, Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that non-hostile ships are those that neither engage in nor support acts of aggression against Iran and do not belong to the United States or Israel.
Due to concerns over Iranian attacks, tanker operators have ceased transiting the strait, which typically handles about one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas shipments. Iran’s letter, dated March 22, stated that it has implemented “necessary and proportionate measures to prevent the aggressors and their supporters from exploiting the Strait of Hormuz.”
It remains uncertain whether this declaration will encourage many shipowners to resume passage through the strait. A widespread return to normal operations may require a formal agreement among the United States, Israel, and Iran to end the conflict.
Iran emphasized in its letter that “the full restoration of security and sustainable stability in the strait is contingent upon the cessation of military aggression and threats.”
U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that negotiations with Iran are underway and that Iran is interested in reaching a deal. Although Iran publicly denies ongoing talks, its officials acknowledge that Tehran and Washington have exchanged messages via intermediaries aimed at de-escalating tensions.
According to Dimitris Ampatzidis, senior risk and compliance analyst at maritime data firm Kpler, Iran’s letter is intended to demonstrate to the IMO that no formal blockade has been imposed on the strait.
Currently, approximately 800 tankers are anchored on either side of the strait, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. Recent vessel movements, reported by MarineTraffic (a Kpler division), indicate that Iran is permitting passage for selected ships.
The significant drop in Gulf oil and gas exports is causing serious global economic disruptions, especially in Asia. While many established shipping companies are cautious about transiting the strait without a peace agreement, Asian nations reliant on Middle Eastern energy supplies may consider sending tankers through if they trust Iran’s assurances.
The letter also stipulates that ships passing through the strait must “fully comply with the declared safety and security regulations,” though no specific rules were outlined.
Since the conflict began on February 28, Kpler reports that 17 ships have been attacked in the Middle East.
This report originally appeared in The New York Times.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The partial reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, albeit under strict conditions set by Iran, presents cautious optimism but considerable risks for maritime and energy businesses in Oman. While the passage of “non-hostile” ships could help restore critical oil and gas flows, the ongoing geopolitical uncertainty means smart investors and entrepreneurs should prepare for volatility and prioritize security and risk management in their operations. Strategic engagement with regional partners and contingency planning will be essential to capitalize on emerging opportunities while mitigating disruption risks.
