LONDON, April 17 - Iran's foreign minister announced that the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for the movement of global oil and gas, was open to all commercial vessels after a ceasefire accord agreed in Lebanon. The declaration prompted immediate comment from shipping industry representatives and world leaders, many of whom signaled cautious optimism while highlighting outstanding questions and operational concerns.
Industry reaction emphasized the need for greater clarity on practical arrangements and lingering hazards before ships can safely transit the waterway.
Shipping industry
"If this represents a step towards an opening, it is a welcome development. However, the situation remains unresolved, with a number of outstanding uncertainties, including questions related to the presence of sea mines, applicable Iranian conditions, and practical implementation. These aspects will need to be clarified before any transit can be assessed."
- Knut Arild Hareide, CEO of the Norwegian Shipowners' Association
"We are now beginning to assess the new situation and the risks involved. For the time being, therefore, we are still refraining from passing through the strait."
- Spokesperson for Hapag-Lloyd shipping company
A company spokesperson later said: "Probably we will pass soon," but added that it was too early to confirm this.
World leaders
"The Strait of Hormuz is completely open and ready for business and full passage, but the naval blockade will remain in full force and effect as it pertains to Iran, only, until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete,"
- U.S. President Donald Trump, writing on Truth Social
"goes in the right direction."
- French President Emmanuel Macron, referring to the move. Macron added: "We all oppose any restrictions or system of agreements that would, in effect, amount to an attempt to privatize the strait- and, of course, any toll system."
"Finland stands ready to work on a solution that brings stability to the region and respects international law,"
- Finnish President Alexander Stubb, on X
The comments underscore a mix of welcome and caution: while several leaders and industry figures view the reopening as a positive development, the presence of unresolved technical and security questions means commercial shipping firms are assessing risks before resuming routine transits.
Context of statements
All quotations and attributions above reflect comments made by the named officials and spokespeople following Iran's announcement that the strait is open for commercial traffic after the Lebanon ceasefire accord. Industry sources signalled that operational verification - such as confirmation regarding maritime hazards and the implementation of any Iranian conditions - is required before traffic levels return to normal.
The situation remains dynamic: carriers and associations described initial assessments and caution, while some government leaders set conditional or limited terms around naval operations tied to Iran. These positions will shape short-term decisions in shipping, energy transport, and regional maritime security operations.