Iran’s military has imposed “strict control” over the Strait of Hormuz, closing the waterway to normal traffic, days after authorities declared it “fully open.”
The move sent shockwaves through global energy markets and brought back uncertainty.
According to British maritime officials, the Iranian IRGC attacked at least two ships attempting to pass through the waterway. A massive Indian ship carrying Iraqi crude oil had to reverse course due to an attack by the Iranian IRGC.
According to the official statement of Iran’s Joint Military Command, “control of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state under the strict leadership and control of the armed forces.”
The authorities warned that the strait will not be opened until the US ends the naval blockade of Iranian ports.
Trump has also responded to the situation, stating that Iran “cannot blackmail us.”
Despite the escalating tension, however, he remained optimistic about the ongoing peace talks.
This reversal came just 24 hours after Iran’s foreign minister declared the strait open, following a 10-day cessation of hostilities in Lebanon between Israel and the Hezbollah militia.
This stand-off has only heightened tensions in international oil markets, with prices falling to around $90 a barrel. barrel earlier this week. Experts from the shipping industry predict that the resumption of shipments through the strait will take weeks, even if it is fully opened.
Meanwhile, Pakistan continues mediation efforts for new talks between the US and Iran. However, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh said Iran is not ready for face-to-face talks yet as the US tries to maintain “maximalist positions.”
