TEHRAN: Iran has once again closed the Strait of Hormuz to unrestricted transit, declaring the vital waterway under “strict military control” after accusing the United States of violating bilateral commitments and engaging in “maritime piracy” under the guise of a naval blockade.
In a statement issued by the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters, Iran’s military command said the move was a direct response to what it described as repeated U.S. violations of agreed-upon terms. “Transit through the Strait has reverted to its previous state of strict military management,” the spokesperson said, adding that the tightened regime will remain in place until Washington lifts all restrictions on Iranian maritime traffic.
The announcement comes despite recent public assurances from both nations that the strait — through which roughly 20% of the world’s oil passes — had been fully reopened. The U.S. maintains, however, that its blockade on Iranian ports remains active pending a comprehensive peace agreement. Tehran insists that such restrictions constitute a breach of its sovereign right to free navigation.
Iranian state media echoed the military’s position, emphasizing that the strait is now under “strict management and control” by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The development risks escalating regional tensions and could disrupt global energy markets if prolonged.
“This is not a closure — it is a reassertion of control,” said one Tehran-based analyst, speaking on condition of anonymity. “Iran is signaling it will not tolerate what it sees as unilateral enforcement of U.S. policy under the cover of diplomacy.”
No immediate response has been issued by the U.S. Department of Defense or the Pentagon. International shipping firms have begun rerouting vessels or delaying transits pending further clarity.
China asserts right to Hormuz passage, warns US against ‘meddling’
