Iran Grants Hormuz Transit for Spain-Linked Vessels Amid War Stance

Iran reportedly allows ships linked to Spain to pass through the Strait of Hormuz in response to Madrid’s opposition to the Middle East war, a claim echoed by Iran’s embassy in Spain but not confirmed by Spain’s foreign ministry. The Hormuz chokepoint handles about 20% of global oil and 19% LNG, and Tehran’s practice has shifted from total closure to “selective blockade” against enemies. Spain’s neutrality under Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, who refused US use of bases in Spain, factors into the dynamic and could strain US-Spain-Israel ties while pushing Madrid to diversify energy supplies, notably with Algeria. The situation remains disputed and could have broad diplomatic and energy-security implications.