On Friday, Iran issued a stark warning, threatening to shut down the vital Strait of Hormuz if the United States continues its naval blockade against Iranian vessels. This escalation could jeopardize the passage of 20% of the world's oil supply.
The threat was reported by the Fars and Tasnim news agencies, both affiliated with Iran's Revolutionary Guard, according to EFE news agency.
"If the American maritime blockade persists, it will be deemed a ceasefire violation, leading to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz," stated Iranian officials.
This warning followed Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi's announcement of the complete reopening of the maritime passage until next Wednesday, marking the ceasefire deadline due to halted hostilities in Lebanon.
However, Iran's reopening comes with specific conditions: ships must coordinate with Iranian forces, follow a designated route from the Gulf of Oman north to Larak Island, and must not be associated with nations deemed adversaries, namely the United States and Israel.
President Donald Trump swiftly responded on his Truth Social platform, asserting that the naval blockade will remain.
"The Strait of Hormuz is fully open and ready for commerce and free transit, but the naval blockade will continue in full force concerning Iran until our negotiations are completely finalized," Trump declared.
The blockade was initiated by Trump on April 12, following unsuccessful talks in Islamabad. The U.S. delegation, led by Vice President JD Vance, Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, failed to reach an agreement with Iran after over 20 hours of discussions.
Since the blockade's inception, the U.S. Central Command reported that 19 ships have reversed course to Iranian ports, with none successfully evading U.S. forces.
Simultaneously, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed that a dozen countries have pledged military support for a UK and France-led multinational defensive mission to unblock the strait, with a planning conference scheduled next week in London.
The current situation is part of the conflict that began on February 28 with Operation Epic Fury, a joint U.S.-Israel assault on Iranian nuclear and military sites, resulting in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and numerous high-ranking Iranian officials.
Iran retaliated by closing the strait on March 4, which caused Brent crude prices to skyrocket from $67 to over $126 per barrel and halted 97% of naval traffic in the area, stranding more than 2,000 vessels.
On Friday, Trump expressed optimism that an extended ceasefire with Iran might not be necessary, as he believes Washington and Tehran are close to a peace agreement, with most terms already settled.
Additionally, the U.S. President announced that with American assistance, Iran is working to remove all sea mines from the Strait of Hormuz, potentially ending the naval traffic paralysis in that region.
Key Questions on the Strait of Hormuz Situation
Why is the Strait of Hormuz so important?
The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial chokepoint for global oil transportation, with approximately 20% of the world's petroleum passing through it. Its closure could significantly impact global oil supply and prices.
What are the conditions set by Iran for reopening the strait?
Iran requires ships to coordinate with its forces, follow a specific route from the Gulf of Oman to Larak Island, and avoid links with countries considered enemies, such as the United States and Israel.