Iran confirms Strait of Hormuz remains open for shipping during ceasefire

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi announced on Friday, April 17, 2026, that the Strait of Hormuz will remain fully open to commercial navigation for the duration of the ongoing ceasefire. This confirmation, relayed by Tasnim News Agency, specifies that shipping will follow coordinated routes previously announced by the Ports and Maritime Organization of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The announcement comes amidst regional tensions, as the Strait of Hormuz is a critical global chokepoint for hydrocarbon trade. Tehran's decision aims to reassure markets and maritime transport actors following recent concerns about potential disruptions. This development follows a ten-day truce agreed upon by Israeli and Lebanese officials, which began on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 9 PM GMT, as stated by US President Donald Trump. The Lebanese movement Hezbollah has indicated it will adhere to the truce if all hostile actions against it cease. However, the situation remains fragile, with the Israeli army reporting responses to rocket fire attributed to Hezbollah from Lebanon. President Trump also announced a diplomatic initiative, inviting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Lebanese President Joseph Aoun to the White House for what he described as the first significant discussions between Israel and Lebanon since 1983. He expressed on Truth Social that both countries desire peace, hinting at a diplomatic opening. International agencies reported a preliminary agreement for direct