Iran keeps Hormuz open for India, blocks rivals in wartime

Amid spiraling tensions in West Asia, Iran has carved out a crucial exception in its partial blockade of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, allowing vessels from five “friendly nations” — including India — to continue transit through the chokepoint.

In a televised interview, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that the passage is not entirely shut, with coordinated safe passage being granted to select countries.

“Several nations reached out seeking safe transit. For countries we consider friendly, our armed forces have ensured passage,” Araghchi said, indicating that India, China, Russia, Pakistan and Iraq remain exempt from the restrictions.

He added that coordination with these countries would continue “even after the war,” underscoring a calibrated approach rather than a blanket closure.

However, Tehran drew a hard line against adversaries. Araghchi made it clear that vessels linked to the United States, Israel and certain Gulf nations involved in the ongoing conflict would not be permitted passage.

“We are in a state of war. The region is a war zone. There is no reason to allow ships of our enemies and their allies,” he said, signaling a strategic chokehold on rival supply chains while preserving ties with key partners.

Tehran asserts control over global energy artery

The Iranian minister also claimed that the partial blockade demonstrated Tehran’s long-contested control over the Hormuz corridor — a claim many initially dismissed.

“They thought Iran lacked the courage. But we acted with strength. Attempts to reverse it failed because it is simply not feasible,” Araghchi said, asserting dominance over one of the world’s most critical maritime routes.

Why Hormuz matters: A global energy flashpoint

The escalation follows joint US-Israeli military action against Iran, after which Tehran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps announced a partial closure of the strait.

The impact has been immediate and far-reaching. Nearly 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies pass through the narrow corridor, making it one of the busiest and most sensitive energy routes in the world.

The disruption triggered a sharp spike in global oil and gas prices and sent shockwaves through energy-dependent economies.

India feels the heat despite exemption

Despite being granted safe passage, India has not been insulated from the fallout. The disruption has strained supply chains, particularly for LPG, of which nearly 90% imports transit through Hormuz.

The resulting shortages have rippled across sectors — from small street vendors to large restaurant businesses — highlighting the fragility of energy security even amid selective geopolitical exemptions.

As tensions persist, Iran’s selective blockade underscores a new phase of economic warfare — one where access to energy corridors is being weaponized with precision.