TEHRAN: Iran tightened control over the Strait of Hormuz and announced new restrictions on the transit of American military equipment through the strategic waterway.
Iranian officials stated that US weapon shipments heading to regional military bases could no longer pass through the strait.
According to Iranian state media, army spokesperson Brigadier General Mohammad Akraminia said Iran’s armed forces now controlled the waterway through coordinated military operations.
Before the conflict began, the Strait of Hormuz handled nearly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.
Therefore, Iran’s latest move increased concerns in global energy markets and diplomatic circles.
Iranian officials also described control over the strait as a long-term strategic objective.
According to comments carried by ISNA news agency, Iranian military leaders believe supervision of the waterway could generate major economic benefits and strengthen Tehran’s geopolitical influence.
Iran assigned the western side of the Strait of Hormuz to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy.
Meanwhile, the Iranian Navy took command of the eastern section.
Iranian First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref declared that Iran had fully established its rights over the strategic route.
At the same time, tensions increased after Kuwait detained four Iranian nationals accused of attempting to infiltrate the Gulf nation.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi demanded their immediate release and warned that Tehran reserved the right to respond.
However, Iran denied allegations linking the individuals to hostile operations.
Iranian officials claimed the men conducted routine maritime patrol duties when navigation problems pushed them into Kuwaiti waters.
Meanwhile, the conflict between the United States and Iran continued to dominate global diplomacy.
US Vice President JD Vance said negotiations with Tehran still showed signs of progress despite serious disagreements.
According to Vance, the US administration remained focused on stopping Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
However, Iran continued demanding compensation for war damages, an end to sanctions, and the lifting of the US blockade.
At the same time, Donald Trump arrived in China ahead of important meetings with President Xi Jinping.
Analysts believe Trump may seek Beijing’s support to help resolve the conflict with Iran.
However, experts say China will likely avoid fully supporting Washington’s strategy because Beijing maintains close economic and energy ties with Tehran.
The conflict has already placed major pressure on global energy supplies.
According to the International Energy Agency, disruptions linked to the Iran conflict could reduce global oil supply by nearly four million barrels per day in 2026.
As a result, oil prices continued rising sharply in international markets.
Meanwhile, ship-tracking data showed a Chinese supertanker carrying Iraqi crude oil successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday.
The development highlighted China’s continued dependence on Middle Eastern energy supplies despite growing regional instability.
Political analysts believe the ongoing Iran conflict is rapidly reshaping alliances across the Middle East.
At the same time, diplomatic efforts continue as world powers attempt to prevent further escalation in the region.
However, major disagreements between Washington and Tehran remain unresolved.
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