Iran has announced the closure of all shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz following fresh US military strikes and escalating confrontations between Iranian and American forces in the region.
According to Iran’s Joint Military Command, any vessel attempting to pass through the strategic waterway would be considered a target. The warning applies to both commercial and oil tankers, raising concerns about global energy supplies and maritime security.
Iranian state media reported that the closure order was issued after renewed hostilities with the United States. Reports also claimed that two vessels in the Strait of Hormuz were targeted for allegedly violating the restrictions, although independent confirmation was not immediately available.
The latest escalation follows a series of US strikes on Iranian targets. In response, clashes reportedly erupted between US forces and Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) near the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transit routes.
Iranian media claimed that Iranian armed forces launched missile and drone attacks against US naval assets operating near the strategic waterway. The reports stated that several American vessels were targeted, though US officials have not confirmed the claims.
Meanwhile, Iranian media reported explosions in multiple locations across the country, including Fars province, western Tehran, Bandar Abbas, Minab, Sirik, Qeshm, Hengam and Kish Island. Explosions were also reported in the port city of Gorgan.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that it had launched additional military operations against multiple targets in Iran. In a statement, CENTCOM said the strikes were conducted in response to what it described as Iran’s “unwarranted and continued aggression”.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global shipping corridor through which a significant portion of the world’s oil exports passes. Any prolonged disruption could have major implications for international trade, energy markets and regional stability.
The situation remains fluid, with fears growing that further military action could intensify tensions across the Middle East.