Iran has said the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, dismissing statements by the United States that commercial vessels are continuing to sail through the strategic waterway. Iranian authorities insisted that any maritime movement must be coordinated with the country’s naval forces.
According to Iran’s state-run broadcaster IRIB, the country’s armed forces declared that the Strait of Hormuz is still under restrictions. The statement said no vessel would be permitted to pass without coordination with Iranian naval authorities, reinforcing Tehran’s position on control of the route.
Iran also rejected claims made by the US Central Command (Centcom), which reportedly said that commercial shipping companies could continue operating through the strait with the protection of US military escorts. Tehran described those assertions as inaccurate and misleading.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategically important maritime passages. A significant share of global oil exports passes through the narrow waterway, making any disruption a major concern for international energy markets and global trade.
Analysts say conflicting statements from Washington and Tehran are likely to increase uncertainty among shipping companies and energy traders. Maritime operators typically monitor official guidance and regional security developments before making navigation decisions in sensitive areas.
The latest exchange comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf region. While both sides continue to present different accounts of the situation, there has been no independent confirmation of the operational status of commercial shipping through the waterway.
Governments and international shipping stakeholders are expected to closely monitor developments in the coming days. Any prolonged restrictions or escalation around the Strait of Hormuz could have significant implications for global energy supplies, freight costs, and regional stability.
