Iran Declares Strait of Hormuz Closed
Iran’s State TV reported on Thursday that the country’s joint military command has declared the Strait of Hormuz closed to all vessels, including oil tankers and commercial ships. The announcement warned that any attempt to transit through the strait “will be targeted.”
The declaration came after the United States military launched another round of strikes against Iran. President Donald Trump said Tehran would “pay the price” for stalled negotiations, raising fears that the escalating attacks could derail efforts to end the war.
US Central Command confirmed in a social media post that American forces were striking “multiple targets in Iran.” The statement described the attacks as a response to what it called Iran’s “unwarranted and continued aggression.”
This marked the second consecutive day of US strikes. Hours earlier, Iran had fired on Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan, all of which host American troops. It was the third time in a week that back and forth attacks tested a fragile two month ceasefire.
The latest escalation followed a US strike on Iran after the crash of an Army helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz, which President Trump blamed on Tehran. Trump has urged Iran to sign a deal to end the war and suggested earlier this week that an agreement could be reached within days.
Iranian media reported explosions in southern cities including Bandar Abbas, Sirik, and Minab. Despite weeks of heavy bombing, Iran has remained defiant, betting that its ability to close the Strait of Hormuz gives it leverage in negotiations.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important waterways, serving as a passage for oil and natural gas exports. Any disruption threatens global energy supplies and raises the risk of wider regional instability.
Analysts say Iran’s move to shut the strait is a powerful bargaining chip. By blocking transit, Tehran can pressure the international community while demonstrating resilience against US military action.
The situation has drawn concern from regional allies and global powers. With unemployment and economic pressures already high in many countries, further instability in energy markets could have far reaching consequences.
