TEHRAN: Iranian state television reported on Saturday that several European countries have started negotiations with Tehran to secure permission for ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions in the region continue despite a fragile ceasefire.
According to the report, European governments opened discussions with Iran after vessels from China, Japan and Pakistan were recently allowed to cross the strategic waterway under new arrangements with the Revolutionary Guards navy. Iranian media did not identify the European countries involved.
Iran has heavily restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict with the United States and Israel erupted on February 28. Although a ceasefire has been in place since April 8, Tehran has maintained strict control over maritime traffic.
The waterway handles nearly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, making any disruption a major concern for international markets.
Iranian officials say a new system for managing commercial traffic through the strait will soon be introduced. Tehran added that only countries and companies cooperating with Iran would be granted access and required service arrangements.
