Iran has stated that it could close the Strait of Hormuz again if the United States does not lift its naval restrictions in the waterway. Although Tehran has recently reopened the strait for shipping, vessel movement remains highly limited.
According to the report, tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated once more, with both sides exchanging warnings over maritime control in the strategic passage. Iran has said that continued US naval restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz would prompt it to shut the key shipping route again.
The announcement came following the start of a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon. Citing a report by the US broadcaster CNN, it was noted that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy has introduced a set of conditions for vessels using the strait, including a requirement to obtain prior permission for passage.
Meanwhile, it was reported that on Friday, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) redirected 21 Iranian vessels back towards port. At the same time, US President Donald Trump stated that the lifting of restrictions would depend on the signing of an agreement between the parties.
These developments have added to uncertainty in the region, particularly amid what has been described as contradictory messaging from Washington regarding the lifting of restrictions.
In response, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, warned that unless the United States lifts its naval blockade, Iran would again close the Strait of Hormuz. He further stated that shipping would only be permitted through designated routes and subject to Iranian approval.
Iran has tightened its control over the strait since 28 February, when the United States and Israel jointly launched strikes on Iranian territory. Following these events, Tehran increased oversight of maritime traffic in the region.
Separately, Washington imposed stricter naval restrictions on Iran after peace talks held in Islamabad over the weekend failed to produce an agreement. The breakdown of negotiations was followed by renewed escalation in maritime tensions.
Key Developments
| Date/Period | Event |
|---|---|
| 28 February | US and Israel conduct joint strikes on Iran; Tehran tightens control over Hormuz Strait |
| Following period | Iran increases restrictions on shipping and introduces permit-based passage |
| Weekend (recent) | Peace talks in Islamabad fail |
| Friday | US CENTCOM redirects 21 Iranian vessels towards port |
| Recent statement | Iran warns of reclosure if US naval blockade continues |
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical maritime route for global shipping, and the current escalation has once again placed it at the centre of regional geopolitical tensions involving Iran and the United States.