Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has warned that it will prevent any oil shipments from passing through the Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing hostilities with the United States and Israel. The move has triggered a stern response from U.S. President Donald Trump, who warned of “20 times stronger” military strikes.
On March 2, 2026, the IRGC declared it had closed the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and vowed to target any vessel attempting to transit. This narrow waterway, which lies between Iran, Oman, and the UAE, handles roughly one-fifth of the world’s traded oil, making it a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies.
While the Iranian government has not officially confirmed the closure, the IRGC reiterated that no ships would be allowed through. The threat forced major shipping companies, including Maersk, MSC, Hapag-Lloyd, and CMA CGM, to suspend all transit through the strait.
President Trump initially predicted the conflict in Iran would last no more than five weeks but later stressed that the U.S. military could sustain operations longer, without providing specific details on an endgame. He warned via X that Iran would face “severe retaliation” if it enforces the blockade.
“If Iran attempts to stop oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, the United States will strike back with force multiplied twenty times over,” Trump said.
IRGC spokesperson Brigadier General Ali Mohammad Naeini emphasized that Iran would control the conflict’s outcome, stating, “We alone will determine the end of this war.”
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi added that Tehran is not ready to resume talks with the United States after failed diplomatic efforts, instead opting for a military approach.
Analysts suggest Iran is using the Strait of Hormuz as leverage to pressure the U.S. into ending hostilities, given the potential global economic impact, including rising oil prices.
Meanwhile, France has deployed twelve naval vessels to the Red Sea and the Mediterranean to protect European shipping and ensure safe passage through the strait. The escalating tensions highlight the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz and the risk of a wider regional confrontation.