Iran announces: Iraq is not subject to restrictions, and can freely pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

Theoretically, up to three million barrels per day could be added daily.

Can this be seen as a positive signal?

This is a real event, which can be viewed as a limited positive signal indicating a possible glimmer of easing in the tensions in the Middle East.

The news originates from the Islamic Republic of Iran News Agency (IRNA), and has been reported by multiple authoritative media outlets including Xinhua News Agency. Iran's armed forces spokesperson confirmed on April 4:

"Brother country" Iraq is exempt from any shipping restrictions imposed by Iran at the Strait of Hormuz.

These restrictions apply only to "hostile nations."

This statement is expected to release up to 3 million barrels per day of oil supply from Iraq.

For Iraq, heavily reliant on oil exports, this is a crucial positive signal. Since the outbreak of conflict, the strait had essentially been cut off, causing Iraq’s total daily oil output to plummet from 4.5 million barrels in February to about 1.33 million barrels per day, nearly halting the economic lifeline upon which the country depends. Thus, this exemption offers Iraq a ray of hope for economic recovery.

The timing of this announcement coincides with the United States issuing a 48-hour ultimatum to Iran, lending a subtle diplomatic dimension to the timing.

This reflects a strategy of "selective blockade." Iran aims to demonstrate "precision targeting" rather than "indiscriminate closure," thereby avoiding antagonizing all neighboring countries simultaneously.

In summary, this is a favorable development that temporarily alleviates some pressure on global oil supplies and indicates a potential opening amid the crisis. However, the strait remains closed to all vessels—including those from numerous Western countries—so the substantial risks facing the global energy market still persist.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1861577051713548/

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.