Strait of Hormuz Tensions: Iran Keeps Passage Open for Friendly Nations

The Iranian envoy to Sri Lanka announced on Monday that the Strait of Hormuz remains accessible to friendly nations, reiterating Tehran's commitment to supply oil or essential goods to Sri Lanka if necessary. The announcement comes amid heightened conflict in West Asia, involving the US, Israel, and Iran, which has led to a partial blockade of the vital global shipping route where 20% of the world's energy supplies are transported.

Iran currently controls the Strait of Hormuz and has restricted many ships from crossing since the unrest began on February 28. Despite the chaos, Iran has kept the passage open for friendly nations like Sri Lanka, according to Alireza Delkhosh, Iran's Ambassador to Sri Lanka. Delkhosh emphasized, 'Sri Lanka is our friendly country and Hormuz is not closed to our friends.'

On the maritime conflict's impact, he discussed the recent sinking of the Iranian warship IRIS Dena by a US submarine, highlighting the incident as a breach of humanitarian law. The incident has intensified the war between the US and Iran, pushing Sri Lanka to increase fuel prices by 25% amid global oil market disruptions.