In a major development amid the escalating Middle East conflict, Iran has announced that it will allow ships from friendly nations, including India, to safely pass through the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, even as restrictions remain in place for enemy nations.

The announcement comes as tensions continue to rise following military actions involving the United States and Israel, which had earlier triggered fears of a complete blockade of the vital oil corridor.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that the strait is not fully closed and that vessels from countries maintaining friendly ties with Iran are being granted safe passage. Apart from India, ships from Russia, China, Pakistan and Iraq have also been allowed to transit.

He stated that several countries had reached out to Iran requesting safe movement of their vessels, and Iranian forces facilitated their passage. He further indicated that this arrangement is expected to continue even after the ongoing conflict stabilises.

However, Iran has drawn a clear line by denying access to ships linked to its adversaries. Araghchi said vessels from the United States, Israel, and certain Gulf nations involved in the conflict would not be allowed through the strait, calling the region an active war zone and asserting that enemy ships would not be granted passage.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most critical global trade routes, carrying nearly 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies. The partial closure announced earlier by Iran, following military escalation, had triggered a global energy scare and sharp fluctuations in oil prices.

India was among the countries significantly impacted, as a large portion of its LPG imports passes through this route. The disruption had led to temporary supply concerns, affecting households, small businesses, and commercial establishments.

The situation, however, has shown signs of improvement after Indian-linked vessels were allowed to move through the strait. Ships carrying LPG cargo, which were earlier stuck in the region, have already reached Indian shores, easing fears of a prolonged shortage.

Iran has also claimed that its control over the Strait of Hormuz demonstrates its strategic strength, stating that earlier doubts about its ability to enforce restrictions have now been proven wrong.

This development is being seen as a major relief for India’s energy security at a time of global uncertainty. While tensions in the Middle East remain high, the continued access to this crucial shipping route ensures that India’s fuel supply chain remains stable for now.

The situation continues to evolve, but for the moment, India has avoided a major energy crisis thanks to diplomatic coordination and strategic navigation through one of the world’s most sensitive geopolitical flashpoints.