Iran’s military has imposed “strict control” over the Strait of Hormuz, closing the waterway to normal traffic, days after authorities declared it “completely open.”
The measure caused shock waves in global energy markets, returning uncertainty.
According to UK maritime officials, the Iranian IRGC attacked at least two ships attempting to pass through the waterway. A huge Indian ship, carrying Iraqi crude oil on board, had to reverse course due to an attack by the Iranian IRGC.
According to the official statement of Iran’s joint military command, “control of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state, under strict management and control of the armed forces.”
Officials have warned that the strait will not open until the United States ends the naval blockade of Iranian ports.
Trump also responded to the situation, stating that Iran “cannot blackmail us.”
However, despite the growing tension, he remained optimistic about the ongoing peace negotiations.
This change came just 24 hours after Iran’s Foreign Minister declared the strait open, following a 10-day cessation of hostilities in Lebanon between Israel and the Hezbollah militia.
This confrontation has only increased tensions in international oil markets, where prices fell to around $90 per barrel at the beginning of the week. Shipping industry experts predict the resumption of shipping through the strait will take weeks, even if it opens fully.
Meanwhile, Pakistan continues its mediation efforts for new talks between the United States and Iran. However, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh said Iran is not yet ready for face-to-face negotiations as the United States tries to maintain “maximalist positions.”
