Iran Assumes Full Control of Strait of Hormuz for Month

Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated sharply following back-to-back maritime assaults in the crucial Strait of Hormuz waterway. In response to consecutive days of attacks on commercial shipping, American forces launched extensive overnight airstrikes against Iranian targets. Amidst this volatile military standoff, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that the Strait of Hormuz will remain under the absolute control and supervision of Tehran for the next 30 days. A Qatar-based news outlet confirmed this sensational information in a report on Sunday (June 28).

Araghchi has actively engaged with regional counterparts regarding the worsening security situation. “I have briefed the Iraqi Foreign Minister on the latest developments concerning the war imposed upon Iran,” the diplomat stated. He confirmed that discussions also covered the implementation status of the existing memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed with Washington.

Maritime Recovery and Sovereignty Claims

According to the Iranian foreign ministry, Tehran is currently working to restore the strategic shipping lane to full operational capacity by clearing existing navigation hazards. Araghchi emphasised that the month-long period of direct oversight is necessary to stabilize the channel.

The Iranian government has taken a rigid stance regarding foreign naval presence in the area. Araghchi asserted that the maintenance and security of the Strait of Hormuz rest solely with the Islamic Republic of Iran, denying any lawful role for external nations or international coalitions. He warned that unilateral actions or foreign military interventions would compound the crisis, ultimately delaying the formal reopening of the vital maritime corridor.

IRGC Threatens Retaliation Following US Airstrikes

Following the American bombardment, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) issued a stern warning promising a decisive response to any further foreign aggression. In an official statement, the elite military branch argued that bilateral frameworks recognise Tehran’s authority to regulate vessel movement through the strait. The IRGC announced plans to enforce maritime regulations with increased severity, targeting any vessels deemed to be violating transit rules.

The paramilitary organisation condemned the latest Pentagon operation, vowing to neutralise future provocations. According to the IRGC command, the recent actions by American forces constitute a direct breach of the ceasefire protocols established under the current MoU. They warned that continued hostilities would permanently derail ongoing diplomatic dialogues and de-escalation efforts.

Central Command Confirms Aerial Strikes

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that American fighter jets targeted multiple positions within and adjacent to the Strait of Hormuz. CENTCOM released aerial footage showing components of the night-time operation, though the imagery remained partially obscured.

The IRGC subsequently clarified the scope of the American bombardment, reporting that the strikes targeted five specific Iranian coastal defence installations. The Strait of Hormuz remains the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoint, connecting Middle Eastern petroleum producers with global markets. This direct military confrontation between Washington and Tehran has raised immediate concerns across international energy markets regarding potential disruptions to global oil supplies.