Tehran: Iran has announced the reopening of the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz but with a warning for ships navigating the region.

The decision comes as part of a temporary two-week ceasefire between Iran and the United States, easing tensions that had effectively blocked one of the world’s busiest energy corridors since early March.

Despite reopening the strait, Iranian authorities have cautioned vessels against using the main shipping channel due to safety concerns.

“All ships intending to transit the Strait of Hormuz are hereby notified that in order to comply with the principles of maritime safety and to be protected from possible collisions with sea mines...they should take alternative routes for traffic in the Strait of Hormuz,” Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said in a statement.

The advisory includes specific instructions for safer entry and exit routes, aiming to reduce the risk posed by suspected sea mines in the area.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most critical oil transit chokepoints in the world, with nearly 20% of global oil supply passing through it. Any disruption here has immediate ripple effects on fuel prices and global markets.

Iran’s earlier move to block the route had already sent energy prices soaring, raising concerns across economies dependent on oil imports.

Ceasefire brings temporary relief

The reopening follows a last-minute agreement between Iran and the United States, reached just hours before a deadline set by Donald Trump. The deal has paused further escalation and allowed limited resumption of maritime traffic.

However, the situation remains fragile, with the current arrangement lasting only two weeks.

With AFP inputs