Tensions between Iran and the United States have escalated again after Tehran announced the re-closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, accusing Washington of failing to respect previously agreed terms.
The key maritime route, which had been reopened on Friday during a temporary 10-day ceasefire, was closed again after Iran said the US continued its naval blockade of Iranian ports in the Persian Gulf.
US President Donald Trump stated that Washington would maintain its blockade of Iranian ports until a full agreement with Tehran is reached.
In response, Iranian authorities warned that if the United States continues restricting Iranian shipping, the Strait of Hormuz will remain under strict Iranian military control.
Earlier on Saturday morning, several tankers carrying petroleum products had begun passing through the waterway after Iran initially allowed commercial vessels to use the route as a gesture of goodwill.
However, in a statement released early Saturday, Iran’s military said that while the country had temporarily allowed oil tankers and commercial vessels to pass through the strait following diplomatic understandings, the continued US blockade forced Tehran to restore stricter control.
“The Islamic Republic of Iran, guided by the principles of Islam, had agreed to allow oil tankers and commercial ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz following negotiations,” the statement said.
It added that “due to continued American blockade actions, the monitoring of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state under strict military regulations.”
Iran further warned that as long as the United States prevents vessels from freely traveling to and from Iranian ports, navigation through the Strait of Hormuz will remain under special supervision.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy corridors, through which a significant portion of global oil shipments pass each day, making the latest development a major concern for global energy markets and international shipping.
