New Delhi, March 22 -- The strategic Strait of Hormuz is open to all shipping except vessels linked to "Iran's enemies", Iran's representative to the UN maritime agency has said, as the de facto blockade of the vital chokepoint continues to push up global oil prices.

Ali Mousavi, Tehran's representative at the International Maritime Organisation, also said that Iran is ready to cooperate with the UN agency to improve maritime safety and protect seafarers in the Gulf.

According to Mousavi, ships not linked to "Iran's enemies" could pass the strait by coordinating security and safety arrangements with Tehran.

"Diplomacy remains Iran's priority. However, a complete cessation of aggression as well as mutual trust and confidence are more im...