Iran has announced that Iraqi ships will face no restrictions passing through the Strait of Hormuz, according to a statement reported by Al Jazeera on April 5, 2026. The announcement comes as naval transits through the strategic waterway have been increasing following the outbreak of the broader conflict in the region.
Iran’s Support for Iraq
Tehran publicly praised Iraq’s “struggle” against the United States, signaling deepening ties between the two neighbors amid the ongoing war that began on February 28, 2026, when US and Israeli forces launched aerial attacks on Iran. Iraq has been navigating a delicate diplomatic position, balancing its relationship with Washington against strong historical and economic links to Tehran.
The Iranian statement made no mention of any conditions or limitations placed on Iraqi vessels, contrasting with earlier threats from Iran to close or restrict the strait during the conflict.
Strategic Importance of the Strait
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. Roughly 20 percent of global oil shipments pass through the narrow waterway, making any disruption to traffic a matter of global economic concern. US officials have been pressing regional and international allies to help ensure the strait remains open as transits show signs of recovery following earlier disruptions.
The increase in vessel movements comes as the US seeks to demonstrate that global supply chains can withstand the disruptions caused by the ongoing hostilities between the US-led coalition and Iran.
Iraq’s Diplomatic Position
Baghdad has found itself under considerable pressure since the start of the conflict. The Iraqi government hosts US military forces on its soil and maintains a strategic partnership with Washington, while simultaneously sharing a long border and deep economic ties with Iran. Iraqi officials have sought to avoid being drawn into the conflict directly, pursuing a policy of measured neutrality while permitting allied forces to operate from Iraqi territory.
The Iranian announcement effectively granting unrestricted passage to Iraqi ships underscores the complex web of alliances and rivalries shaping the region’s response to the ongoing war.
