The U.S. military on Saturday denied Iran's claims that it had closed the Strait of Hormuz, saying the critical waterway remained open and that U.S. forces were monitoring the situation to ensure continued traffic flow.
US Response to Iranian Declaration
“Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz,” U.S. Central Command spokesperson Navy Captain Tim Hawkins told Reuters. “Traffic continues to flow, and U.S. forces are monitoring the situation to ensure this remains the case.”
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps declared the Strait of Hormuz shut earlier on Saturday and warned ships not to approach the waterway, casting new doubt on the future of a ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Iran meant to pave the way for in-depth peace talks.
Ongoing Maritime Situation
Since several weeks, general cargos, oil tankers, and landing crafts have been seen anchored off the waters of Oman, as depicted in a June 20 photo from Muscat. The U.S. military's denial comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with the Strait of Hormuz being a vital passage for global oil shipments.
