Iran has again blocked the Strait of Hormuz
Iranian authorities are withdrawing the agreement on limited commercial transit through the Strait of Hormuz and restoring “strict control” over vessel movement, the Iranian army general staff reported on Saturday, April 18.
“Due to ongoing acts of piracy and naval blockade by the United States, Iran is withdrawing the agreement that allowed limited commercial transit through the Strait of Hormuz. This waterway is now again under the strict control of the Iranian armed forces,” the statement said.
Until the United States restores freedom of navigation for all vessels entering Iran, “the situation in the Strait of Hormuz will remain under strict control,” the statement added.
A representative of Iran’s central military command headquarters, “Khatam al-Anbia,” confirmed that Tehran has restored military control over the Strait of Hormuz. According to him, this is due to the fact that the United States “continues to engage in piracy and maritime aggression under the pretext of a so-called blockade.”
“For this reason, control over the Strait of Hormuz has returned to its previous state, and this strategic strait is under strict management and control of the armed forces,” the statement said.
Iranian authorities announced the temporary reopening of the strait for commercial vessels on Friday, April 17. Prior to this, a de facto double blockade had been in place in the strait — by both the United States and Iran. Tehran allowed passage only to vessels from certain countries, while requiring significant transit fees. US President Donald Trump said the American blockade “will remain fully in force” until Iran reaches an agreement with the United States, including on its nuclear program.
On April 8, Washington and Tehran announced a two-week ceasefire. Talks held in Islamabad ended without results. Trump stated that the United States and Iran intend to continue contacts over the weekend of April 18–19. According to Reuters, the parties may soon sign a memorandum of understanding, followed by a comprehensive agreement within 60 days.
