TEHRAN — Amid a 95% collapse in maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, Iran has designated India as a "friendly nation" allowed to bypass its current naval blockade.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that while the waterway is closed to "enemies" like the U.S. and Israel, select partners—including Russia, China, and India—are being granted safe transit.

Strategic Highlights

• Active Transit: Two Indian vessels successfully crossed the strait this week following direct coordination with Tehran.
• The Blockade: Iran is utilizing drones and missiles to enforce a "no-entry" zone for adversaries, causing global fuel shortages and a massive drop in daily transits (from 120 to fewer than 10).
• The "Enemy" List: Ships linked to the U.S., Israel, and certain involved Gulf nations are strictly prohibited from entering the war zone.

The move ensures a critical energy lifeline for India, even as the broader region faces supply chain disruptions reminiscent of the COVID-19 pandemic.