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Hormuz partially open: Iran allows 'friendly' vessels — 5 ships cross since Thursday
·Strait of Hormuz
Shipping data showed three Omani-operated tankers, a French-owned container ship and a Japanese-owned gas carrier have crossed the Strait of Hormuz since Thursday, reflecting Iran's selective policy to allow passage for vessels it deems friendly. The strait remains effectively closed to US-aligned and sanctioned shipping.
Shipping data reviewed by Reuters showed that five vessels crossed the Strait of Hormuz between Thursday April 2 and Friday April 3: three Omani-operated tankers, one French-owned container ship, and one Japanese-owned gas carrier. Iran has enacted a de facto selective blockade, allowing passage to vessels from countries it considers non-hostile while blocking US-aligned and sanctioned shipping.
The Philippines had separately confirmed Iran pledged safe passage to Philippine-flagged vessels on April 3. The partial transit reflects Iran's use of Hormuz as a diplomatic lever — maintaining leverage over Western energy markets while avoiding a complete closure that might trigger broader international military intervention. The UK is leading a 40-nation initiative on Hormuz, and the UN Security Council postponed a vote on authorizing defensive force to protect transit through the strait. Iran has warned the UNSC against 'provocative action.'
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Actor responses
Iran allowing selective Hormuz passage to 'friendly' nations — Oman, France, Japan-linked vessels crossing while US-aligned shipping remains blocked. Used as diplomatic leverage.
Trump stated US could 'easily open' Hormuz 'with a little more time.' US-aligned vessels remain effectively blocked by Iran's selective transit policy.
Sources