Iran has reimposed restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz, citing the continued US naval blockade of its ports, according to state media.
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf had warned earlier that the vital shipping route would “not remain open” if Washington maintained its presence in the Arabian Sea.
Iran’s military has now acted on that warning, stating that the US “did not fulfil their obligations” under prior arrangements that had allowed limited vessel transit.
In a statement, the joint military command said passage through the strait will now require Iranian approval, adding that the waterway is once again under the “strict management and control” of the armed forces.
Tehran indicated that restrictions will remain in place as long as the blockade continues.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump reiterated that the US naval blockade would stay “in full force and effect” until a permanent peace agreement is reached, warning of renewed military action if a deal is not secured within days.
IRGC navy warns US against ‘further breaches’
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps navy has warned it will respond firmly to any perceived violations by the US.
The force said “every breach of promise” by Washington would be met with a “fitting response,” escalating tensions around the Strait of Hormuz.
It also cautioned that threats to vessels travelling to and from Iran must cease if the waterway is to remain open.
“As long as the passage of vessels to and from Iran remains under threat, the status of the Strait of Hormuz will remain in its previous state,” the IRGC navy said.
