Iran has announced alternative maritime routes for vessels transiting the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, citing safety concerns over possible sea mines in the main channel.
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The move comes as part of a temporary two-week ceasefire agreement aimed at easing tensions and restoring limited shipping activity through the waterway, which handles nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. Iranian authorities said the decision was necessary to ensure safe navigation and prevent potential maritime incidents.
In a statement carried by local media, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps advised all vessels intending to pass through the strait to follow newly designated entry and exit routes. The guidance is intended to minimize the risk of collisions with sea mines reportedly present in parts of the main transit corridor.
The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and its Gulf neighbors, is one of the most critical chokepoints for global energy trade. Any disruption in its operations has immediate consequences for international oil markets and shipping costs.
The latest development follows a breakthrough in negotiations between United States and Iran, which resulted in a short-term truce. The agreement was reached just hours before Donald Trump set a deadline warning of severe consequences if Iran did not comply with demands to reopen the waterway.
Iran had effectively restricted access to the strait since early March, triggering sharp increases in global energy prices and raising concerns among major oil-importing nations. Analysts say the reopening, even under restricted conditions, may help stabilize markets in the short term.
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However, uncertainty remains over the long-term security of the route, with observers closely monitoring whether the ceasefire will hold beyond the initial two-week period.