The United Nations has welcomed Iran’s decision to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping, describing it as a positive development amid ongoing ceasefire efforts in the Middle East.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres, through his spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, said the move could help reduce tensions and restore stability in the region.
The UN reiterated its position on the importance of maintaining full navigational rights and freedom of passage through the strategic waterway, which is vital to global trade and energy supply.
Guterres expressed support for ongoing diplomatic initiatives aimed at resolving the conflict, noting that the reopening of the strait could build trust among involved parties.
He also acknowledged mediation efforts led by Pakistan, which contributed to the temporary ceasefire currently in place.
The development follows confirmation from both Iran and the United States that the Strait of Hormuz is now accessible to commercial vessels.
U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Iran had declared the route fully open, while Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that the waterway would remain accessible throughout the ceasefire period.
Despite the reopening, uncertainty remains, as Trump indicated that certain restrictions could still be enforced pending further agreements between Washington and Tehran.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for global oil shipments, has been at the centre of rising geopolitical tensions following recent U.S.-Israeli military actions targeting Iranian-linked facilities.
Efforts to secure a lasting peace agreement have so far yielded limited results, with key disagreements, including Iran’s nuclear programme, continuing to stall negotiations.
The UN emphasised that sustained dialogue and confidence-building measures are essential to achieving long-term stability in the region.
