Iran announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to maritime traffic on Saturday, citing ongoing U.S. blockade efforts in the region. The move comes amid heightened tensions between the two nations and raises concerns over the future of negotiations on a potential peace deal.
Military Official Cites U.S. Blockade
A military official, quoted by Iran's semi-official Fars News Agency, accused the United States of engaging in "banditry and maritime piracy." The official stated that the Strait would remain tightly controlled "as long as the United States does not agree to the complete freedom of navigation for vessels."
Reports of Tanker Attacks
U.S. defense officials and the U.K. Maritime Trade Operation (UKMTO) confirmed that Iran has fired on commercial tankers in the Strait. At least three attacks were reported on Saturday, with one ship sustaining damage. No injuries have been reported. Audio recordings from the incidents suggest that one vessel was granted clearance to enter the Strait before being fired upon.
"As long as the United States does not agree to the complete freedom of navigation for vessels, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz will remain tightly controlled." — Iranian military official
Impact on Negotiations
The closure and reported attacks come just hours after President Trump expressed optimism about a potential deal with Iran. Trump claimed that Iran had agreed to stop enriching uranium "forever" and that negotiations were progressing. However, the latest developments cast doubt on whether the planned talks will proceed as scheduled.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical shipping lane for global oil trade, and its closure could have significant economic repercussions. U.S. Central Command confirmed that 23 ships have complied with instructions to turn around since the blockade began earlier this week.