On December 27, a senior Iranian official declared that no ship could transit the Strait of Hormuz without Tehran's permission. This is Iran's strongest statement yet asserting control over the strategic waterway, which carries about one-fifth of global crude oil consumption.
Speaking to the media, Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy, emphasized: "Under international law, the Strait of Hormuz is a vital sea lane. However, any vessel wishing to pass must obtain Iran's permission. We have the right to inspect and monitor all ships in this area."
The statement comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and the West, particularly the United States, over Tehran's nuclear program and naval confrontations in the Gulf. Earlier this year, the U.S. Navy accused Iranian vessels of harassing American warships in international waters, while Tehran denied the allegations, calling them attempts to smear Iran.
The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is one of the world's most important oil chokepoints. About 21 million barrels of oil per day—equivalent to over 20% of global demand—are transported through this route. Iran has repeatedly threatened to close the strait if it faces threats or economic pressure, especially from U.S. sanctions.
Analysts suggest that Iran tightening its grip on the Strait of Hormuz could drive global oil prices higher and severely impact world energy security. Meanwhile, some international law experts argue that Tehran's statement may violate the principle of freedom of navigation, adding further complexity to the regional situation.
