Iran to permit only Chinese vessels through Strait of Hormuz: Report

Iran restricts Hormuz passage to China

Iran has signalled it will allow only Chinese vessels to transit the Strait of Hormuz, describing the move as a gesture of gratitude for Beijing’s support since the Middle East war began, sources told NDTV. The announcement comes as Tehran’s Revolutionary Guard has effectively declared the strategic waterway closed to international shipping, a move that threatens vital global energy routes and supply chains.

The Strait — the narrow waterway linking Persian Gulf ports to the open sea — has been blocked by Iran since the conflict escalated, creating serious concerns over global supply chains.

Iranian forces have warned that any vessel attempting to transit the passage could be targeted. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which is leading Iran’s response following the US–Israel offensive, has declared it now has "complete control" of the Strait, cautioning that ships seeking to cross risk damage from missiles or stray drones.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital maritime artery, providing access to the open sea for countries including the United Arab Emirates and Qatar. Approximately 20% of global oil flows through the channel before reaching major Asian markets such as China and India. With the route effectively blocked, analysts warn of severe disruptions to global trade.

China’s response to the conflict

Beijing has strongly criticised the US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, calling them "unacceptable".

According to China’s state news agency Xinhua, Foreign Minister Wang Yi told Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov that the "blatant killing of a sovereign leader" — referring to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei — and efforts to incite regime change were unacceptable.

China had earlier called for an immediate ceasefire and emphasised the need to safeguard shipping lanes. As the largest buyer of Iranian oil, Beijing depends heavily on crude supplies passing through the Strait. A prolonged blockade could trigger significant economic strain for China.

"China urges all parties to immediately cease military operations, avoid further escalation of tensions, maintain the safety of shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz, and prevent a greater impact on the global economy," Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning has said. "Energy security is of great importance to the global economy... China will take necessary measures to ensure its energy security," she said.

Trump’s warning on naval escorts

US President Donald Trump has said the US Navy stands ready to escort oil tankers through the Strait if required.

"If necessary, the United States Navy will begin escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, as soon as possible. No matter what, the United States will ensure the FREE FLOW of ENERGY to the WORLD," he has said on his Truth Social platform.

Ensuring uninterrupted passage through the Strait carries domestic implications for Trump as well. A sustained blockade could drive up oil prices and fuel inflation in the United States. Although the US is largely self-sufficient in natural gas, disruptions to global supply chains would still have ripple effects on energy costs — at a time when many Americans remain concerned about employment prospects and the economic impact of tariff disputes.