Ankara: Iran's permanent mission to the UN announced that vessels not engaging in aggression against the nation will be allowed safe passage through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. This declaration was made on Tuesday, highlighting that "non-hostile vessels," regardless of their association with other states, can traverse the strait as long as they abide by Iran's safety and security regulations and coordinate with Iranian authorities.

According to Anadolu Agency, this statement comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, following a joint offensive by the US and Israel against Iran on February 28. The conflict has resulted in over 1,340 casualties, including the death of Iran's then-Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. In response, Iran has launched several drone and missile strikes targeting both Israel and Gulf nations that host US military forces.

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint through which approximately 20 million barrels of oil are transported daily, has faced severe disruptions since early March. This has led to increased shipping costs and a surge in global oil prices, underscoring the strait's significance to global energy markets.