Iran claims it has full control over the Strait of Hormuz

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has declared that it has full control over the Strait of Hormuz, one of the most important routes for global oil and gas trade.

According to IRGC Navy spokesman Mohammad Akbarzadeh, the strait is ‘completely under the control’ of the Iranian Navy and any vessel attempting to pass may face the risk of attack, including missile or drone strikes.

The statement comes amid rapidly escalating tensions in the Middle East. The Strait of Hormuz links the Persian Gulf with the Arabian Sea and is one of the most critical points in global energy trade, with a large portion of the world’s oil and liquefied gas supplies passing through it.

Any restriction on transport through the strait could immediately affect energy prices and international shipping. The IRGC’s remarks follow a declaration by US President Donald Trump, who said the day before that the US Navy was prepared to respond to further escalation of the conflict.

(mja)