On December 27, Iran rejected earlier claims that it had closed the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most critical oil transit chokepoints. Speaking from Tehran, an Iranian Foreign Ministry official stated: 'Commercial vessels are operating normally through the Strait of Hormuz, with no disruptions whatsoever.'
Earlier, Western media had reported that Iran may have blockaded the strait in response to U.S. sanctions. However, Tehran dismissed these reports as 'baseless' and 'aimed at creating public confusion.'
According to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), approximately 20% of the world's crude oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz each day. Any disruption in the region could send global oil prices soaring.
Middle East analyst Mehdi Taheri noted: 'Iran's denial of the strait closure is just part of the information war. In reality, maritime traffic continues, but the security situation still carries significant risks.'
The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian (Arabian) Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and serves as a vital export gateway for oil producers including Iran, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) maintains patrols in the area, while the U.S. Navy also has a regular presence.
