Iran Closes Hormuz As US Launches Fresh Strikes Tehran Threatens To Target Any Ship Entering Strategic WaterwayThe fragile ceasefire in the Iran war appeared close to collapse on Thursday after the United States launched fresh airstrikes in southern Iran and Tehran responded by declaring the Strait of Hormuz closed to all shipping. Iranian military officials warned that any vessel attempting to transit the strategic waterway would be treated as a target, raising fears of a major global energy shock and a wider regional conflict. The latest escalation followed overnight US strikes on sites in Minab and Sirik near the Strait of Hormuz. US Central Command said American forces had struck multiple targets in response to what it described as Iran's continued aggression. Iranian state media reported explosions in Bandar Abbas, Sirik and Minab as the attacks unfolded. Strait Closure Raises StakesShortly after the strikes, Iran's military command announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway linking the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea. The route carries a significant share of the world's seaborne oil and liquefied natural gas exports, making any disruption a major concern for global markets. Iran warned that all commercial vessels, including oil tankers, would be prohibited from passing through the area and said any attempt to transit the strait would be met with force. The move represents one of Tehran's most direct challenges to international shipping since the conflict began. Washington Signals More Force To ComeUS Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said further strikes remained possible. He warned that American military action would be "strong" and "clear" if Iran continued its current course. President Donald Trump has linked the latest operation to the reported downing of a US Army Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz, an incident Washington blames on Tehran. Iran has vowed retaliation. Diplomatic Hopes FadeAt the United Nations, Iran's ambassador accused Washington of pursuing a policy of threats and intimidation. Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani told the Security Council that Iran would not negotiate under pressure and demanded that the United States abandon what he described as coercive tactics. His comments came as hopes for a lasting ceasefire appeared to fade. Oil Shock Fears ReturnThe closure threat immediately reignited fears of a global energy crisis. Any prolonged disruption to traffic through Hormuz could send oil prices soaring and place fresh pressure on economies already struggling with inflation and supply-chain instability. What began as a limited military exchange is now threatening to become a confrontation with consequences far beyond the Middle East. SOURCE
