Iran’s State Media Says Strait of Hormuz Closed Again

Iran has once again closed the vital Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions in the Gulf and raising fresh concerns over global energy supplies.

Iranian military command announced on Saturday that the waterway had been shut, according to state-affiliated Tasnim News Agency.

The move comes just a day after Tehran had said it would reopen the strait to commercial shipping during a temporary ceasefire.

The reversal follows remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated that reopening the strait would not lead to the lifting of Washington’s naval blockade on Iranian ports.

The United States has maintained that restrictions will remain in place until a comprehensive peace agreement is reached.

The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most critical energy transit chokepoints.

Roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments pass through the narrow corridor.

Iran’s foreign minister had earlier said the strait would remain “completely open” for commercial vessels throughout the ceasefire period.

However, the latest decision by Iran’s military underscores the fragile and uncertain nature of the truce.

Markets have already reacted to the volatility. Brent crude prices, which hovered around 70 dollars per barrel before the conflict, surged to nearly 120 dollars in March amid fears of supply disruption.

Prices later eased below 90 dollars following Iran’s initial reopening announcement, but renewed restrictions are expected to intensify concerns over global supply chains.

The situation remains fluid, with the status of the strait continuing to shift amid conflicting signals from Tehran and Washington.

Analysts warn that any prolonged disruption in the passage could have far-reaching implications for energy markets and the global economy. (Agencies)