The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategic oil transit routes, is expected to fully reopen on Friday following a landmark agreement between the United States and Iran aimed at ending months of conflict in the Middle East.
US President Donald Trump announced that commercial vessels had already begun moving through the vital waterway, expressing confidence that shipping activities would return to normal within days. The reopening comes after Iran imposed a blockade on the strait at the onset of hostilities, disrupting global energy supplies and triggering sharp increases in oil prices.
The peace agreement, facilitated by Pakistan and expected to be formally signed in Switzerland, marks a significant breakthrough in efforts to restore regional stability. According to US officials, key leaders have already endorsed the document electronically, paving the way for implementation.
Iranian authorities described the accord as a major diplomatic achievement, stating that it brings an immediate end to the conflict and opens the door for negotiations on a comprehensive long-term settlement. However, Tehran also stressed the need for guarantees that all parties, including Israel, adhere to the terms of the agreement.
Despite the breakthrough, several critical issues remain unresolved, including Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions relief, compensation for wartime damages, and the release of frozen Iranian assets held abroad.
Regional and international leaders have largely welcomed the agreement. The United Nations described the development as a crucial step toward peace, while countries including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Pakistan expressed optimism that the deal would help reduce tensions across the Middle East.
Financial markets reacted positively to the announcement. Global oil prices declined sharply as investors anticipated improved energy flows, while major stock markets recorded gains on expectations of greater economic stability.
The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is expected to ease pressure on global energy markets and could represent the first major step toward a broader de-escalation of tensions in one of the world’s most volatile regions.
