Amidst the intensifying conflict in the Middle East, Iran has announced that it will open the strategic Strait of Hormuz for India. Since the United States and Israel launched a war against Iran last month, this waterway, which serves as the gateway to the Persian Gulf, has been under the strict control of Iran. One-fifth of the world's total oil trade passes through this narrow strait. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi clarified through an official television channel that the Strait of Hormuz is not completely closed, contrary to what Western media has been propagating.

Safe Passage for Friendly Nations:

The Foreign Minister informed that permission has been granted for ships from countries that maintain friendly relations with them, including China, Russia, and India, to pass through safely. "Many shipowners and countries had contacted us requesting to ensure safe travel. The Iranian armed forces are prepared to provide a safe passage for our friendly nations and other ships with special circumstances," Araghchi said in a statement reported by Reuters. Referring to countries such as China, Russia, Pakistan, Iraq, and India, he revealed that two Indian ships had passed through this route a few days ago. He added that discussions are also ongoing with countries including Bangladesh, and this cooperation will continue even after the war.

No Entry for Hostile Nations:

At the same time, Iran issued a stern warning that permission to use this route would not be granted to hostile countries or those participating in the current conflict. Clearance to travel through the Strait of Hormuz will not be given to ships from the United States, Israel, and certain Gulf countries intervening in the conflict. "We are currently in a state of war. This region has turned into a war zone. Therefore, we are not in a situation to allow the passage of enemies and their allies. However, this path will remain open for others," Araghchi clarified. Due to the lack of proper travel permission, a container ship heading to Pakistan was intercepted and sent back by the Iranian military last week.

Global Market in Crisis:

The restrictions imposed by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz have significantly impacted the global economy. With the primary route for the world's oil and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) obstructed, fuel shortages have become acute in many countries. Business sectors ranging from airlines to supermarkets are facing major challenges due to rising costs and supply chain disruptions. Following the retaliatory strikes by Iran after the bombings by the US and Israel, shipping traffic in the region dropped by approximately 95 percent. In this passage where around 120 ships normally pass daily, only 155 ships passed during the first 25 days of March. As fuel transport came to a standstill, many countries have begun considering economic packages similar to those during the COVID-19 era. It is in this context that Iran's decision to open the passage for friendly countries, including India, gains great significance.

India's Stance on the War:

Meanwhile, the stance adopted by the central administration in India regarding the war has been subject to heavy criticism within the country. Disregarding the relationship India has traditionally maintained with Iran, the central administration often took a pro-Israel stance during the war. It was only days after the supreme leader of Iran was assassinated by Israel and the US that India even expressed its condolences. While a shortage of oil and cooking gas persists in India, and at a time when Israel and the US have not taken any favorable stance toward India, the Iranian Foreign Minister has announced the opening of the Strait of Hormuz for India.