Malaysia and Thailand struck their own deals shortly after, earning spots on Tehran's list of "friendly" nations alongside Bangladesh. Thailand secured access after one of its flagged vessels, the Mayuree Naree, was attacked and ran aground near Iran. Iran's foreign minister has also separately told Japan's Kyodo News that Iran was ready to facilitate passage for Japanese vessels. Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian earlier urged Malacañang to pursue exactly this kind of discussion with Iran to ensure Philippine-bound oil shipments can be greenlighted. US President Donald Trump recently delivered fresh threats against Iran, this time saying he would "obliterate" their power plants and oil wells.

Source: Philippine Star March 31, 2026 09:31 UTC