'Iran allowed Iraqi tankers to pass through Hormuz Strait'

Iraqi oil tankers have been granted permission to pass through the Strait of Hormuz by Iran, according to state media reports on Saturday. Despite the US imposing severe military measures and insecurity in the region, Tehran has permitted a number of Iraqi vessels to navigate the strategic waterway over the past six months. The Iraqi government has repeatedly requested passage through a series of channels, including during a trip by Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf to Iraq.

Iran has maintained control of the Hormuz Strait since the Middle East war began on February 28, requiring vessels to obtain permission and pay transit fees before using the waterway. US President Donald Trump asserts total control of the strait, which accounts for about one fifth of the world's oil and LNG exports before the war.

Iraq relies heavily on the Hormuz Strait for exporting crude oil, and Iranian officials have been constantly asked by Iraqi authorities to grant more permits. Talks are ongoing between Iran and Oman to establish a new route through the strait, but no final decision has been made. Even if the talks result in a new route, it would not open the waterway unless the US meets Iran's broader demands.