Iran signals closure of Strait of Hormuz after US–Israel strikes

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Tehran: Iran has moved to close the Strait of Hormuz, sending high-frequency radio warnings to commercial vessels in the Gulf that they would not be allowed to pass through the critical shipping corridor.

According to maritime and regional security sources, the warnings were issued by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which told ships transiting nearby waters that the strait was no longer open to international traffic.

The move places one of the world’s most important energy chokepoints under immediate threat and has raised alarm among shipping companies and governments dependent on Gulf oil and gas exports.

The development comes after missile strikes carried out on Iran on Saturday by the United States and Israel, sharply escalating tensions across the region.

The Strait of Hormuz, which links the Gulf with the Arabian Sea, is a vital route for global energy supplies and a key strategic artery for U.S. allies in the Middle East. Any prolonged disruption could have major implications for international shipping, insurance rates and global oil markets.

There was no immediate confirmation from Iranian civilian authorities on how long the restrictions would remain in place, while regional navies were reported to be closely monitoring the situation.