DUBAI, March 22 (Reuters) – The Strait of Hormuz is currently open to all ships, except those associated with “Iran's enemies,” according to Iranian media reports quoting Iran's representative to the U.N. maritime agency.

Ali Mousavi made these remarks in an interview with Chinese news agency Xinhua, which was published on Friday. This was before U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to target Iranian power plants if the strait was not “fully open” within 48 hours.

The risk of Iranian attacks amidst the ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran has deterred many ships from passing through the narrow strait. This area is crucial, carrying about 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas supplies, and any disruption could result in a potential global energy crisis.

Mousavi, who also serves as Iran's ambassador to the UK, mentioned that Tehran intends to work with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) to enhance maritime safety and protect sailors in the Gulf. He added that ships not flagged by “Iran's enemies” could navigate the strait by coordinating security and safety measures with Tehran.

"Diplomacy is Iran's main focus. However, stopping all aggression and building mutual trust are even more essential," said Mousavi, highlighting that the Israeli and U.S. attacks on Iran are the main causes of the current situation in the Strait of Hormuz.