US forces lift blockade of Iran ports, says ‘will remain in general area…’

US Naval Blockade on Iranian Ports Lifted, but Restrictions Remain

Theindiapostdaily.com – U.S. military forces lifted a two-month naval embargo on Iranian ports on Thursday, allowing unrestricted ship movement. The decision, announced by the U.S. Central Command, stated that American warships would “remain in the general area to ensure compliance with all terms of the agreement.”

Trump Calls Deal a “Victory” for the United States

Following the move, former President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social, declaring, “Oil is flowing,” as a sign of the agreement’s success. He framed the deal as a triumph, dismissing criticism and highlighting reduced oil prices and economic gains. “Check out the Stock Market. Dumocrat propaganda at play!!!” he added.

“There is no 300 Billion Dollar payment to Iran by the U.S. That’s Fake News! All there is for the U.S. is Success, Lower Oil Prices, and Victory,” Trump emphasized.

Shipping Activity Surges in the Gulf

The easing of restrictions has sparked a rebound in maritime traffic across the Gulf. At least two oil tankers exited Iran without interception, transporting 3.8 million barrels of crude oil, according to shipping tracking data. Iranian state media reported that southern ports have seen “normalized” operations, though the Strait of Hormuz remains under military oversight.

Vessels Navigate Alternatives While Central Channel Stays Closed

Despite the progress, the main central route of the Strait of Hormuz is still blocked. Phillip Belcher, a marine director at Intertanko, noted unresolved risks, including 80 estimated mines. “This is like a highway where the road in the middle is closed… we need to get back to having the highway open,” he remarked, explaining that ships are now using northern and southern paths.

Deal Sparks 60-Day Negotiation Window

The interim agreement has set a 60-day period for finalizing a comprehensive nuclear deal. U.S. Vice President JD Vance confirmed the timeline is active, with both sides focusing on uranium enrichment limits and verification processes. “If the strait is not open, there’s not going to be a final deal,” he reiterated, stressing the need for a future security framework.

Energy Markets and Shipping Sector Respond

Major shipping companies, such as Grimaldi Group, Cosco, NYK, and Knutsen, have resumed crossings through the strait. Maritime data firm Kpler recorded 11 vessel movements on Thursday, signaling a gradual return to normalcy. The Strait of Hormuz, which typically handles about 20% of global crude oil exports, is now critical for stabilizing energy markets.

Analysts Note Broader Recovery

Richard Meade, editor-in-chief of Lloyd’s List, observed a significant increase in traffic, with nearly 10 million barrels of oil reportedly passing through the strait. “For the first time in 110 days, ships owned by major companies were crossing the strait,” he stated, underscoring the deal’s impact on regional commerce.

Iranian Officials Confirm Normalization of Operations

Iranian state media reported that commercial shipping resumed normal operations since Monday. However, Tehran reiterated that transit through the strait requires coordination with its authorities, emphasizing continued strategic control over the waterway.

With inputs from AP and Bloomberg, the U.S. military’s shift marks a pivotal moment, yet challenges persist in fully reopening the vital strait. The next steps will depend on ongoing negotiations and risk assessments.