Iran announces full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz

CAIRO – 17 April 2026: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi announced the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz on Friday, signaling a de-escalation in regional maritime tensions.

“In accordance with the ceasefire in Lebanon, we announce the full reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to all commercial vessels for the remainder of the ceasefire period,” the Foreign Minister wrote on his X account.

He added, “This passage must be via a pre-arranged and coordinated route announced by the Ports and Maritime Organization of the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

The Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister also noted, “We are committed to keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, but we may implement new security and transit arrangements.”

The announcement follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s statement on Thursday that a 10-day ceasefire has been reached between Lebanon and Israel, which took effect at midnight.

Trump indicated that he had spoken with both the Lebanese President and the Israeli Prime Minister. He has since instructed his Vice President and Secretary of State to coordinate with both sides to work toward a permanent resolution.

President Trump affirmed that both Lebanon and Israel desire peace, expressing his belief that a lasting agreement could be reached soon. He called for continued efforts to secure a durable end to the conflict.

Furthermore, Trump announced that he would invite the Israeli Prime Minister and the Lebanese President to the White House for the first round of serious, direct negotiations between the two parties.