Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters announced the immediate closure of the Strait of Hormuz to maritime traffic, citing a violation of a ceasefire agreement with the United States and Israel. The statement, reported by state-run Mehr news agency, called the move a “first phase” and warned of further measures if “attacks continue.” Iranian officials accused the U.S. of failing to implement the first clause of the deal and claimed Israel continued attacks in southern Lebanon. The closure raises immediate alarms over global energy supply, as roughly 20% of the world’s oil transits this narrow passage.
In contrast, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance told Fox News there was no evidence that Iran had actually blocked the waterway. The U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Bahrain confirmed it was monitoring the situation and consulting regional partners. The Iranian Foreign Ministry separately announced plans to send a delegation to Switzerland to demand compliance, insisting Tehran remains committed to its own obligations.
Oil markets reacted violently, with Brent crude spiking more than 8% to briefly touch $98 per barrel before settling near $95. Analysts warn a sustained closure beyond 48 hours could push prices above $100, triggering a broader economic shock. The disruption also threatens Qatari LNG exports, adding pressure to European energy supplies already strained by reduced Russian gas. The International Energy Agency has not yet called an emergency meeting, but member states are reportedly reviewing options to release strategic petroleum reserves.
The geopolitical escalation risks drawing in naval forces from multiple nations. While alternative pipelines offer limited capacity—Saudi Arabia’s Petroline can carry about 5 million barrels per day—they cannot replace the roughly 17 million barrels that transit the Strait daily. The next 48 to 72 hours will be critical in determining whether this is a short-term pressure tactic or the start of a prolonged blockade.
