By Ghazali Ibrahim
Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz again, reversing its earlier reopening on Friday, in a sharp escalation of tensions with the United States.
Iranian authorities said the move was in response to a continued US naval blockade on its ports, which they described as “piracy” and “sea robbery.”
The closure comes barely a day after Tehran had allowed limited shipping through the vital waterway following a ceasefire.
However, officials said the strait would remain shut until the US lifts restrictions on Iranian vessels.
Reports indicate that Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has taken control of the route, warning that any unauthorised vessels could be targeted. In some cases, gunboats reportedly fired on tankers, forcing ships to turn back mid-journey.
The latest move has heightened global concerns, as the Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical oil routes, handling roughly 20 percent of global oil and gas shipments.
The United States has insisted that its blockade will remain in place until a broader agreement is reached with Iran, while diplomatic talks are ongoing to prevent further escalation.
Analysts warn that the renewed closure could disrupt global oil supply, push up fuel prices, and worsen economic uncertainty if the standoff continues.
