WANA (May 02) – Iran’s Deputy for Economic Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that following increased restrictions on navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, various countries have been sending repeated messages and making urgent calls to obtain Iran’s approval for their vessels to pass.

 

Hamid Qanbari said: “Countries are urgently requesting, through telexes and official letters, permission for their ships to transit the Strait of Hormuz, expressing concern and a sense of urgency.”

 

He highlighted the strategic importance of this maritime passage, adding that under current conditions, ships can only pass with authorization from Iran and via routes designated by the relevant authorities.

 

In this context, Japan’s Prime Minister had previously announced that, in order to facilitate the passage of his country’s oil tankers, he had directly contacted Iran’s President to make the request.

 

According to the report, traffic through the Strait of Hormuz this month has dropped to about half compared to the peak period of tensions, and only vessels that comply with the regulations set by the Ports and Maritime Organization are allowed to pass.

 

Experts believe that the continuation of this situation could have significant impacts on global energy trade and maritime transport, as the Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes.