Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz Due to Ongoing US Port Blockade

Iranian Gunboats Open Fire on Tanker in Strait of Hormuz Amid Ongoing Blockade Dispute

Reports emerged on Saturday that Iranian gunboats fired at a tanker attempting to cross the Strait of Hormuz, following Tehran’s announcement that it is re-closing the waterway. The move comes after Iran stated that it is responding to the continued US blockade of its ports.

According to the Iranian military, control of the strategic waterway has “returned to its previous state.” The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed that the ongoing US blockade represents “acts of piracy and maritime theft,” stating that the control over Hormuz is under strict management and control by armed forces.

The closure of the strait occurred hours after it was reopened, with more than a dozen commercial ships passing through the waterway following a 10-day ceasefire deal between Israel and Lebanon. However, reports indicate that at least as many ships turned back, having begun to exit the Gulf.

US President Donald Trump had previously expressed optimism about a peace deal to end the US-Israel war on Iran, but his comments were tempered by warnings of resumed attacks until Iran agreed to a deal, including its nuclear program. The Iranian government has accused the US of “betraying” diplomacy in all negotiations.

Maritime shipping specialist John-Paul Rodrigue stated that ships have been attempting to transit the strait since the announcement, but many are heading back due to uncertainty and contradictory information being issued by all parties. Reporting from Tehran, Al Jazeera’s Tohid Asadi noted that “uncertainty is the name of the game” as far as the Strait of Hormuz is concerned.

Source: Al Jazeera