NEW YORK, April 19 (Alliance News): Iran’s military has imposed “strict control” over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, effectively halting normal maritime traffic just days after declaring the waterway fully open, triggering renewed uncertainty in global energy markets.
According to UK maritime authorities, forces of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) targeted at least two vessels attempting to transit the strait.
An Indian ship carrying Iraqi crude oil was reportedly forced to reverse course following an attack.
In an official statement, Iran’s joint military command said that control of the Strait of Hormuz has reverted to “strict management” under its armed forces, warning that the passage will remain restricted until the United States lifts its naval blockade on Iranian ports.
US President Donald Trump responded by asserting that Iran “cannot blackmail us,” while maintaining cautious optimism regarding ongoing diplomatic efforts.
The latest escalation comes just 24 hours after Iran’s foreign minister had announced the reopening of the strait following a 10-day cessation of hostilities in Lebanon between Israel and Hezbollah.
The renewed standoff has rattled international oil markets, reversing earlier stability when prices had hovered around $90 per barrel. Shipping analysts warn that even if reopened, normal traffic through the strait could take weeks to resume.
Meanwhile, Pakistan continues its mediation efforts to facilitate fresh US-Iran negotiations. However, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh indicated that Tehran is not yet ready for direct talks, citing Washington’s continued “maximalist positions.”
