Malaysian Ships Granted Passage Through the Strait of Hormuz

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for global oil supply, has seen approximately 2,000 commercial vessels stranded due to geopolitical tensions. Recently, the Iranian government has granted permission for seven Malaysian ships to navigate through this strategic waterway, a decision facilitated by diplomatic communications between Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

The Straits TimesHere Are The Countries’ Ships Allowed Through Iran’s Strait Of Hormuz

On March 26, 2026, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that Iranian authorities had agreed to allow Malaysian vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. This development is seen as a significant step towards alleviating financial pressures stemming from rising oil prices. Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan confirmed that the Malaysian ships, owned by companies such as Petronas and MISC, would soon be able to depart, following a prior successful passage of a Malaysian cargo ship carrying fertilizer.

Here Are The Countries’ Ships Allowed Through Iran’s Strait Of HormuzThe Straits Times

Iran's mission to the United Nations stated that "non-hostile vessels" would be permitted to transit the Strait, provided they coordinate with Iranian authorities. The Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized that the Strait remains open to vessels from friendly nations while being closed to those from adversarial countries.

Here Are The Countries’ Ships Allowed Through Iran’s Strait Of Hormuz

The blockage of the Strait of Hormuz has significant implications for global energy markets, as approximately 20% of the world's oil supply passes through this narrow passage. The delays have contributed to energy shocks and inflation in various countries, impacting economies and livelihoods. In addition to Malaysia, other nations such as Japan, Russia, Iraq, and Bangladesh have also been granted passage, while countries like the United States and its allies remain excluded.

Here Are The Countries’ Ships Allowed Through Iran’s Strait Of HormuzThe Straits Times

Despite the easing of restrictions for certain vessels, there are concerns regarding Iran's potential introduction of tolls for ships transiting the Strait. Critics argue that such measures could violate the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which mandates the free passage of vessels in international waters.

Here Are The Countries’ Ships Allowed Through Iran’s Strait Of Hormuz

While the Iranian government has indicated a willingness to allow various nations' vessels to pass, there are discrepancies regarding the specific conditions and the number of ships affected. Reports suggest that a Turkish-owned ship and a Thai oil tanker have successfully navigated the Strait, but the overall situation remains fluid, with ongoing diplomatic negotiations.

Here Are The Countries’ Ships Allowed Through Iran’s Strait Of Hormuz

• “He said the Iranian government had agreed to allow the ships to pass through the strait.” — Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Malaysian Foreign Minister

The Straits Times

• “This development comes less than two weeks after a Thai Precious Shipping carrier was struck in the waterway.” — Report on maritime incidents

Here Are The Countries’ Ships Allowed Through Iran’s Strait Of Hormuz

As diplomatic efforts continue, it remains to be seen how many additional vessels will be granted passage and whether Iran will implement tolls for transit. The situation in the Strait of Hormuz will likely evolve as more countries engage with Iran to secure safe passage for their shipping interests.

Here Are The Countries’ Ships Allowed Through Iran’s Strait Of Hormuz