Iran on Sunday reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to global shipping, except vessels linked to its “enemies,” referring to the United States and Israel. The statement comes amid rising tensions over access to the vital corridor that carries nearly 20% of the world’s crude oil supply. Tehran signalled willingness to work with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to ensure maritime safety. “Ships not linked to Iran’s ‘enemies’ can transit the strait by coordinating security and safety arrangements with Tehran,” Iran’s representative to the IMO, Ali Mousavi, was quoted as saying.
