The Central Military Command of the Iranian Armed Forces, known as the Khatam al-Anbiya Headquarters, issued a statement on June 11, declaring the closure of the strait. The Iranian military stated that all vessels, including oil tankers and cargo ships, are prohibited from passing through.
Iran warned that any ship attempting to transit the strait would be targeted. Local media reported that Iranian forces fired upon two vessels attempting to navigate the strait on the same day. The extent of damage to the ships and any casualties has not yet been confirmed.
This announcement came shortly after the U.S. Central Command revealed additional airstrikes against Iran. The U.S. military stated it targeted multiple sites within Iran in response to ongoing attacks.
The U.S. airstrikes began following the crash of a U.S. Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. targeted Iranian air defense systems and military facilities, continuing with further strikes thereafter.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical maritime route for oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports from the Gulf region to global markets. Iran had previously mentioned imposing transit fees and restrictions, but this time it announced a complete ban on all vessels in response to U.S. airstrikes.
The U.S.-Iran conflict is escalating beyond the strait. Reports indicate that Iran has launched missile and drone attacks against U.S. facilities in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan. The U.S. is keeping the option for further responses open, increasing military tensions surrounding the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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