Tensions have flared once again in the Gulf as Iran signalled tighter control over maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, accusing the United States of undermining a fragile ceasefire arrangement.
In a rapid shift of tone on Friday, Iranian authorities moved from reassurance to warning. Earlier in the day, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had indicated via social media that the vital shipping lane remained open. However, state media later reported that any vessel movement would now fall under strict military oversight.
According to the announcement, passage through the Strait would be deemed invalid if what Tehran describes as a continuing US naval blockade persists.
The escalation follows firm remarks from Donald Trump, who has maintained that restrictions on Iranian ports will stay in place until a broader agreement is secured with Tehran. Prospects for renewed negotiations remain uncertain after an initial round of talks in Islamabad broke down last weekend.
An Iranian military spokesperson said authorities had, for now, permitted a limited flow of oil tankers and commercial vessels. He accused Washington of failing to honour commitments.
“But unfortunately, the Americans, with their repeated breaches of trust that are part of their track record, continue to engage in piracy and maritime theft under the so-called title of blockade,” he said, as reported by the semi-official Fars news agency.
He added that control of the strategic waterway had returned to the “strict management and control of the armed forces” and would remain so until the United States lifts its blockade on ships travelling to and from Iranian ports.
The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial artery for global energy supplies, has long been a flashpoint in tensions between the two countries.