Iran has taken steps to close the Strait of Hormuz following missile strikes by the United States and Israel, according to a Reuters report. Ships operating in the Gulf have reportedly received high-frequency radio warnings from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards stating that vessels will not be permitted to transit the strategic waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz, located at the mouth of the Arabian Gulf, is a critical maritime corridor for global energy supplies and a key route for US allies in the region. The latest development has intensified concerns in international markets already rattled by the escalating conflict.
Iran controls the northern coastline of the strait and key access points to the narrow channel, giving it considerable leverage over one of the world’s most vital shipping lanes. The route handles a significant share of global oil and gas shipments, including much of Iran’s own exports.
Approximately 20 percent of the world’s oil consumption passes through the Strait of Hormuz, making any disruption a major risk to global energy security and international trade.
The reported move comes amid rapidly rising tensions after coordinated US and Israeli strikes targeted Iranian positions, raising fears of broader regional instability.