Iran says Strait of Hormuz closed only to US and Israeli-linked ships

A senior military official in Iran said that the country has not closed the Strait of Hormuz, but vessels linked to the United States or Israel will not be allowed to pass through the strategic waterway.

The comments were made on Iranian state television and were reported by Iran International.

According to the official, shipping restrictions will apply specifically to ships associated with the United States or Israel, while the strait itself remains open.

The statement suggests that Tehran is attempting to limit maritime traffic on selected routes rather than impose a full closure of the vital chokepoint. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy transit corridors, carrying a substantial portion of global oil supplies.

However, maritime traffic through the strait has already dropped sharply amid the escalating regional conflict.

By Tamilla Hasanova