Iran has reimposed strict military control over the Strait of Hormuz, citing what it described as repeated U.S. violations of its blockade and “acts of piracy,” as tensions in the vital shipping lane escalated sharply, according to Reuters.
Shortly after the move, at least two merchant vessels reported being hit by gunfire while attempting to transit the waterway, underscoring the growing risks to commercial shipping.
Tehran said it had initially allowed limited vessel passage “in good faith” following negotiations but reversed course due to continued U.S. actions linked to the ongoing naval blockade of Iranian ports.
Ships come under fire after control tightened
At least two merchant vessels reported they were struck by gunfire on Saturday as they attempted to cross the strait, three maritime security and shipping sources told Reuters. The extent of the damage was not immediately clear.
The incidents came soon after Iran announced it was restoring strict military oversight of the waterway.
Earlier in the day, maritime tracking data showed a convoy of eight tankers moving through the strait — the first major movement of vessels since the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran began seven weeks ago.
Military control tied to U.S. blockade dispute
Iran’s armed forces said transit conditions had reverted to tight military control, accusing the United States of violating understandings around shipping access and enforcing what Tehran described as an unlawful blockade.
A spokesperson said Iran had agreed to allow a limited number of oil tankers and commercial vessels to pass “in good faith” after negotiations but tightened restrictions again due to continued U.S. actions.
The U.S. blockade, imposed earlier this month, targets vessels entering or leaving Iranian ports and has added to uncertainty across global shipping markets.
There was no immediate response from Washington.
Escalating rhetoric and fragile ceasefire
In a defiant message posted on Telegram, Mojtaba Khamenei said Iran’s navy was ready to inflict “new bitter defeats” on its enemies.
The developments come despite Iran’s earlier announcement that it would temporarily reopen the strait following a U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement involving Israel and Lebanon.
U.S. President Donald Trump said there was “some pretty good news” regarding Iran but warned fighting could resume if no long-term agreement is reached before the ceasefire expires Wednesday.
Source: tovima.com
