Iran closes Strait of Hormuz after fresh US strikes
Tehran warns all vessel traffic will be targeted as tensions escalate following new American attacks on southern Iran
TEHRAN, Iran (MNTV) — Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz early Thursday, warning that all vessel traffic through the strategic waterway would be targeted following a fresh round of U.S. military strikes on southern Iran.
“From this moment, due to insecurity in the region, the Strait of Hormuz is declared closed to the passage of all vessels, including oil tankers and commercial ships, and any traffic will be targeted,” Iran’s highest operational military command said in a statement.
The headquarters said the order was issued after continued U.S. military aggression and new attacks on several locations in the southern province of Hormozgan. It also rejected U.S. claims that ships were continuing to transit the waterway.
The command warned that Iran’s armed forces would respond forcefully to any further military action by U.S. forces in the region.
The announcement came hours after reports of explosions in parts of Hormozgan Province, including Sirik and Qeshm Island, as the U.S. military confirmed launching a new wave of strikes inside Iran. Iranian media said air defense systems were activated in several areas following the attacks.
In a separate statement, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy confirmed the closure of the waterway and said the measure would remain in effect until further notice.
“Effective immediately, the Strait of Hormuz is completely closed,” the IRGC Navy said, warning that any vessel approaching the strait would face “decisive action.”
The force also advised oil tankers and commercial vessels operating in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman not to leave their anchorages, saying any attempt to approach the strait would be considered cooperation with hostile forces.
The IRGC Navy further claimed it struck two vessels attempting to transit the waterway after the closure order took effect. No immediate details were provided about the ships, their ownership or any casualties.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, carrying roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments. Any prolonged disruption to traffic through the narrow passage could have significant implications for global energy markets and international shipping.
The closure follows several days of U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran and Iran’s retaliatory attacks against U.S. military installations in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan following previous American attacks.
Iranian military officials said the country’s armed forces remain prepared for further confrontation and warned that additional U.S. military action would be met with a continued response.
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