Iran has granted special permission for several Iraqi oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, offering some relief to Baghdad as traffic through the strategically vital waterway remains severely restricted.
Iran’s state news agency IRNA reported that the decision followed repeated requests from Iraq through diplomatic channels. Securing special passage for Iraqi oil tankers was also one of Baghdad’s key requests during Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf’s recent visit to Iraq.
The move is particularly important for Iraq, whose economy depends heavily on oil exports. Iraqi authorities have been seeking ways to keep crude shipments moving despite the disruption around Hormuz.
Iraqi President Nizar Amedi confirmed that Iran had facilitated tanker passage, while discussions over maintaining oil exports through the strait are continuing.
But the wider shipping situation remains extremely difficult. Only a small number of commercial vessels have recently passed through Hormuz, far below normal levels, as security concerns continue to deter major shipping companies.
Iraq is also exploring alternative export routes through Turkey, Syria and Jordan to reduce its dependence on the strait.
For Baghdad, the Iranian exemption provides a temporary lifeline—but the wider crisis around Hormuz continues to threaten Iraq’s oil revenues and regional energy security.
