Iran: Strait of Hormuz Cannot Be Reopened If U.S. Blockade Continues

Iran has warned that the Strait of Hormuz; one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes, will remain closed or under strict control if the United States continues its naval blockade against Iranian ports.

The warning comes amid escalating tensions between Tehran and Washington, following reports that U.S. forces have imposed restrictions on vessels linked to Iran, triggering a fresh maritime standoff in the Persian Gulf.

Iranian officials insist the situation at the Strait is directly tied to the U.S. military actions, arguing that freedom of navigation in the waterway can not be guaranteed under what they describe as “continued American interference.”

A senior Iranian parliamentary figure, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, recently stated that the Strait “will not remain open” if the blockade persists, signalling Tehran’s firm position on the issue.

Iranian military authorities have also reiterated that control measures over the Strait will remain in place until Washington ends its restrictions on Iranian maritime traffic, describing the U.S. blockade as a violation of ceasefire understandings and international norms.

The Strait of Hormuz, which handles roughly one-fifth of global oil shipments, has become a flashpoint in the ongoing geopolitical crisis, with shipping disruptions already affecting global energy markets and pushing up crude oil prices.

While the United States maintains that its operations are aimed at enforcing sanctions and maritime security, Iran argues that the measures amount to economic aggression and “maritime piracy,” warning that further escalation could deepen instability in the region.

As diplomatic efforts continue to stall, fears are growing that prolonged confrontation could further disrupt global energy supply chains and intensify tensions in the Gulf.