Iran has announced the suspension of all maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz following recent US military strikes and escalating military confrontations in the region.
In a statement, Iran’s Joint Military Command warned that any vessel attempting to pass through the strategic waterway would be considered a target.
According to the statement, the restrictions apply to both oil tankers and commercial shipping vessels.
Iranian media reported that two ships were targeted for allegedly violating the restrictions, although further details have not been released.
The development comes amid reports of clashes between US forces and Iran’s Revolutionary Guard near the Strait of Hormuz following recent American military operations inside Iran.
Iranian media claimed that Iranian armed forces launched missile and drone attacks against US naval vessels operating near the strategic waterway.
Reports also indicated explosions in several Iranian locations, including Fars Province, western Tehran, Bandar Abbas, Minab, Sirik, Qeshm, Hengam, Kish Island and Gorgan Port.
Meanwhile, the US Central Command stated that additional defensive operations against multiple targets inside Iran are underway.
According to the US military, the actions are being carried out in response to what it described as continued and unprovoked Iranian aggression.
Analysts warn that any disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz could have significant consequences for global oil supplies, energy markets and international trade, as a substantial portion of the world’s oil exports passes through the waterway.
