Iran has issued a stark warning that the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping chokepoint, may not remain open if the United States continues its naval blockade. The escalation follows heated exchanges between Tehran and Washington, with Iranian officials accusing the U.S. of violating commitments and manipulating public opinion.
Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, Iran's parliament speaker, stated early Saturday that passage through the strait would require Iranian authorization and adherence to designated routes. His remarks came in response to U.S. claims that Iran had agreed to terms for a potential peace deal, which Tehran dismissed as "entirely false."
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reinforced the warning, asserting that any breach of commitments by the U.S. would trigger a "befitting response." A spokesperson for Iran's Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters added that control of the strait had "returned to its previous state," with Iranian armed forces now managing the waterway.
Tensions flared further after the UK Maritime Trade Operations reported a tanker was fired upon by suspected IRGC-linked gunboats near Oman on Saturday. While the vessel and crew were unharmed, shipping data revealed disruptions, with at least 10 ships aborting transit through the strait.
Iran's Supreme National Security Council emphasized that strict control over the strait will persist until regional peace is achieved. Analysts warn that prolonged instability could destabilize global energy markets, as 20% of the world's oil shipments pass through the narrow waterway.
