Iran Reverses Decision to Reopen Strait of Hormuz Amid US Blockade
Iran has reversed its decision to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, warning that it will continue to block transit through this critical waterway as long as the United States maintains its blockade of Iranian ports. This escalating standoff threatens to deepen the global energy crisis and push the two nations toward renewed conflict, despite mediators expressing confidence that a new deal is within reach.
Strait Closure and Military Incidents
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard navy announced on Saturday night that the strait is closed until the US blockade is lifted. Hours earlier, two gunboats from Iran's Revolutionary Guard opened fire on a tanker transiting the Strait of Hormuz, according to the British military's United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations centre. The tanker and crew were reported safe, though the vessel and its destination were not identified.
Roughly one-fifth of the world's oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz, and further restrictions would squeeze already constrained supply, driving prices higher once again. Iran's initial announcement on Friday about reopening the crucial body of water coincided with a 10-day truce between Israel and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon appearing to hold.
Casualties and Regional Impact
The fighting has resulted in significant casualties, with at least 3,000 people killed in Iran, nearly 2,300 in Lebanon, 23 in Israel, and more than a dozen in Gulf Arab states. Additionally, thirteen US service members have been killed. In a recent development, Israel's military reported another soldier died in combat in southern Lebanon, the second death announced in under twelve hours, bringing the total number of soldiers killed in Lebanon to 15.
Full Closure and Threats
Iran's state media reported that the navy of the Revolutionary Guard Corps has extended the closure to include a corridor previously designated for safe passage, declaring the strait fully closed until the US blockade on Iranian ports and ships is lifted. On Friday, Iran had stated that vessels could move through the strait in coordination with it and upon payment of a toll. However, in a statement late Saturday carried by state media, the navy warned that any violating vessel would be targeted.
Iran considers the US blockade a violation of the ceasefire between the two countries. Earlier on Saturday, two vessels were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz and off Oman's coast, with at least one incident involving Iranian gunboats. The military also reported that another soldier was badly wounded in the same incident, along with four moderately wounded and four lightly injured.
This standoff highlights the fragile geopolitical tensions in the region, with potential repercussions for global energy markets and international security. The situation remains fluid as diplomatic efforts continue to seek a resolution.
