Breaking Crisis: Iran Shuts Down Strait Of Hormuz Again, Threatening Global Energy Supply

According to state television, military authorities said the waterway is now under “strict management and control” of Iran’s armed forces, describing the move as a reaction to what it called an ongoing naval blockade by the United States.

Shipping data indicated that several commercial vessels rushed through the narrow channel, with some navigating close to Iranian waters while signaling neutrality by identifying as Indian or Chinese. By mid-morning GMT, at least eight oil and gas tankers had successfully passed through, while others appeared to reverse course.

The situation raises questions about recent remarks by US President Donald Trump, who had suggested that a deal to end hostilities involving Washington, Israel, and Tehran was imminent.

Iran had earlier reopened the strait following a ceasefire in Lebanon that paused fighting between Israel and Hezbollah, a development that briefly eased global oil prices. However, Tehran had warned it could shut the route again if the blockade persisted.

With only four days left before the expiration of the two-week ceasefire, diplomatic efforts have intensified. Mediation led by Pakistan has gained momentum, with Army Chief Asim Munir visiting Tehran and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif touring the Middle East to support negotiations. Egypt has also expressed optimism that a final agreement could be reached soon.

Further talks are expected to resume in Islamabad later this week, following earlier meetings attended by US Vice President JD Vance.

A major sticking point remains Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium. While Trump claimed Tehran had agreed to hand over about 440 kilograms enriched to 60 percent, Iran has denied this. Foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei insisted that the uranium would neither be transferred nor discussed as part of the negotiations.