Washington DC: In a major development, one of the world’s most crucial waterways is going to reopen after months of blockade as US Central Command officially lifted its naval blockade on Iran. CENTCOM on Thursday informed that it has lifted all its restrictions on commercial vessels entering and exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas following a high-stakes digital signing of an MoU between the United States and Iran. Following the signing of the agreement, the US military has stopped enforcing strict restrictions on commercial vessels entering and exiting Iranian ports.
US Warships Stay As Hormuz Reopens
Following the major announcement of unlocking of the Strait of Hormuz, the global energy markets have started taking a sigh of relief. However, the CENTCOM has also issued a warning that the US military’s warships are not withdrawing from the region but will instead focus on overseeing adherence to the ceasefire agreement.
What Did CENTCOM Say?
The CENTCOM took to X and said that US military had withdrawn all blockades from the Strait in accordance with the direction of President Donald Trump.
“Today, US forces lifted the blockade on all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports and coastal areas, in accordance with the President’s direction. American forces are not impeding the transit of vessels to or from Iranian ports. All US military blockade enforcement efforts have ceased,” CENTCOM stated.
The command added that US naval assets would continue to operate in the region to ensure compliance with the agreement.
“Our great Naval Ships will remain in the general area to make sure that all aspects of the agreement are adhered to, obeyed and in full force and effect,” the statement added.
Washington, Tehran Start 60-Day Negotiations
Notably, the announcement comes at a time when Washington and Tehran have agreed to enter a 60-day period of negotiations following the signing of an MoU focused on ending the ongoing war, reopening maritime routes, and laying the groundwork for a broader agreement.
What Did US Vice President Say?
US Vice President JD Vance recently said that the peace talks officially started on June 18, a day after the agreement was signed.
“I would say the 60-day period officially started today. So, yes, the deal started yesterday. We’re going to start the 60-day clock today,” Vance said while briefing reporters at the White House.
Praising and defending the recently signed MoU, Vance stated that the strategy of the Trump administration is producing tangible results, specially in restoring vessel activity through the Strait of Hormuz, easing a major pressure on global energy markets.
He further said that over 12.5 million barrels of oil crossed the Strait of Hormuz overnight, which is the highest volume recorded since February 28, the date when the conflict started.
“Last night, 12.5 million barrels of oil went through the Strait of Hormuz, which is a high since the beginning of the conflict,” Vance said.
US VP Cites Falling Fuel Prices As A Key Benefit
Vance further talked about decreasing prices of petrol and diesel in the United States, arguing that the MoS is delivering immediate economic benefits.
“Oil prices are down nearly to their level from the pre-war conflict, gas prices dropped below USD 4 a gallon today for the first time since the conflict, and importantly, they’re going to keep falling further given how low oil prices are,” he said.
Strait Of Hormuz Reopens: What Does It Mean For India?
India, among other major countries, is largely dependent on the Gulf countries to fulfill its energy needs. It imports crude oil and LPG gas from Iran and other Gulf countries through the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The months-long blockade of the strait had affected India’s energy needs, leading to fuel and LPG shortages. The blockade had also impacted the global energy market, which directly impacted the fuel and gas prices in India. Now, following the announcement, fuel and gas prices are expected to come down in the coming weeks.
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