Tehran, Apr 18 (V7N) — Iran has announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz following what it described as a continued United States naval blockade of Iranian ports, according to Iranian state media reports on Saturday.

State-run outlets including IRIB (Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting) and Fars News Agency reported that the strategic waterway will return to its “previous state” under full control of Iran’s armed forces.

The announcement cited the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which described US actions as “piracy” and said the restrictions would remain in place until Iran’s maritime access and port operations are fully restored.

Strategic waterway under military control

The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes, handles a significant portion of global energy shipments. Any disruption in the area is closely watched by international markets due to its potential impact on global oil prices and supply chains.

Iranian officials stated that the military would maintain control over movement in the region and enforce new navigation rules during the closure period.

Rising regional tensions

The move follows recent warnings from Iranian parliamentary leaders, including Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who had stated that the strait “will not remain open” if US pressure continues.

Analysts say the announcement could significantly escalate tensions between Tehran and Washington and create fresh uncertainty in global energy markets, given the strategic importance of the waterway for oil exports from the Gulf region.

END/SMA/AJ