Baghdad: The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that the southern route through the Strait of Hormuz is open to all commercial vessels wishing to transit this international waterway. This announcement was made public on Tuesday evening, providing reassurance to the global shipping community regarding the strategic maritime route.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, CENTCOM shared in a post on its "X" platform that over the past three months, US forces have assisted more than 1,000 vessels in successfully transiting the strait. This assistance comes amidst what CENTCOM describes as unprovoked Iranian aggression, highlighting ongoing operations to ensure secure passage.

CENTCOM had previously reported a significant impact on commercial shipping, with 45 commercial vessels being diverted since the naval blockade against Iran resumed on July 14. In addition to guiding vessels, US forces have taken active measures to maintain security in the waterway. They have disabled two vessels and inspected two others to ensure compliance with international regulations, demonstrating a proactive stance in maintaining open and safe passage through the strait.