Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz Again Amid US Blockade Tensions

Iran has once again closed the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil shipping route, in response to the United States' ongoing blockade of its ports.

This closure follows a brief reopening of the waterway after a US-mediated ceasefire in the Middle East.

Tehran announced that control of the strait has "returned to its previous state," with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stating that the waterway will remain tightly controlled until the US lifts its blockade.

The IRGC described the blockade as "acts of piracy and maritime theft." Reports indicate that Iranian gunboats fired on a tanker attempting to transit the strait.

The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency confirmed that two gunboats linked to the IRGC opened fire on a merchant vessel, which was reported to be safe along with its crew.

The Strait of Hormuz is a strategic chokepoint through which approximately 20 percent of the world's oil supply passes.

Its closure has significant implications for global energy markets and regional stability.

The closure came just hours after the strait was briefly reopened, allowing more than a dozen commercial ships to pass through following a 10-day ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon.

However, the reopening was short-lived amid unresolved tensions over the US naval blockade.

US President Donald Trump had expressed optimism about the ceasefire and the reopening of the strait but warned that US military actions could resume if Iran did not agree to a broader deal, including on its nuclear program.

Iranian officials have accused the US of betraying diplomatic efforts and have not agreed to a date for further peace talks.

The IRGC emphasized that freedom of navigation for vessels traveling to and from Iran must be fully restored before the strait's status can change.

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing negotiations reportedly taking place in Islamabad.

The IRGC navy command has warned that any breach of commitments by the US will be met with an appropriate response.

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