Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Announces Closure of Strait of Hormuz, Vows to Target Passing Ships

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced late Sunday that the strategic Strait of Hormuz has been closed and warned that any vessel attempting to pass through the vital waterway would be targeted.

According to Al Qahera News, the IRGC said it would not allow ships to transit the strait, escalating tensions in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors. The narrow passage connects the Arabian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and is a key route for global oil and gas shipments.

The Revolutionary Guard further declared that it would not permit oil exports from the region to the United States or Israel, signaling a potential disruption to international energy markets if the threat is enforced.

The developments come amid heightened regional tensions, raising concerns about the security of maritime navigation and the stability of global energy supplies. Any prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz could have far-reaching economic consequences, as a significant portion of the world’s crude oil and liquefied natural gas passes through the route daily.

Meanwhile, the U.S. newspaper The Wall Street Journal reported that gas prices in Europe have risen following a halt in supplies from Qatar. The reported supply disruption has added to market volatility, with traders closely monitoring developments in the Gulf region.

Analysts warn that further escalation could intensify pressure on global energy markets, potentially driving up prices and increasing geopolitical risk as international stakeholders assess their response.