By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has welcomed Iran’s announcement that the Strait of Hormuz is fully open to commercial vessels during the current ceasefire period, according to a statement released Friday.
Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said Guterres considers the reopening a positive step toward easing regional tensions.
“The United Nations’ position remains clear: we need full restoration of navigational rights and freedoms in the Strait of Hormuz,” Dujarric said.
The Secretary-General “remains fully supportive of diplomatic efforts to find a peaceful path forward out of the current Middle East conflict,” the spokesperson added.
“He hopes this measure, alongside the ceasefire, will build confidence between parties and strengthen dialogue facilitated by Pakistan.”
U.S. President Donald Trump and Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi both confirmed the waterway is now open to commercial vessels.
In a social media post, Trump said Iran announced the strait “is fully open and ready for full passage.”
Earlier, Araghchi wrote on X that the passage “is declared completely open” in line with the ceasefire, including in Lebanon. He added the strait would remain open for the duration of the ceasefire.
However, Trump said the blockade would “remain in full force” until the U.S. completes its “transaction” with Iran.
Trump had earlier announced “major combat operations” against Iran on Feb. 28, involving joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on key sites.
Pakistan brokered a temporary ceasefire following negotiations in Islamabad aimed at reducing hostilities. However, U.S.-Iran talks in Pakistan failed to produce a peace deal, with Iran’s nuclear programme remaining a key sticking point.
Trump also warned that the U.S. would impose a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz from Monday, April 13.
