Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz Following U.S. Strikes

In a statement released by Iran’s elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, authorities declared that, effective June 11, 2026, no oil tankers or commercial vessels would be allowed to pass through the waterway. The statement warned that any ship attempting to cross without authorization would be targeted.

The move comes amid escalating military tensions between Iran and the United States across the Middle East. Since June 10, Iran has reportedly launched missile strikes against U.S. military installations in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan.

According to the IRGC, the targeted bases included Sheikh Isa Air Base in Bahrain, Ali Al Salem and Ahmad Al Jaber bases in Kuwait, and Al-Azraq Air Base in Jordan. Iran also claimed responsibility for attacking two oil tankers attempting to transit the Strait of Hormuz.

Tehran says the attacks were retaliation for recent U.S. strikes on Iranian military facilities in Karaj and on ports located along the Strait of Hormuz. Washington, however, maintains that its operations were carried out in response to the downing of an American military helicopter in the area.

U.S. President Donald Trump warned that the United States would respond “with overwhelming force” following the destruction of the aircraft, which was reportedly monitoring oil shipping activity in the Gulf.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, with nearly 20 percent of globally traded oil passing through it each day.

Iran briefly closed the strait earlier this year during rising tensions with the United States and Israel, before easing restrictions as peace negotiations resumed.

Global markets reacted sharply during the previous closure, with oil prices surging from under $80 to nearly $120 per barrel. Analysts warn that renewed disruption in Hormuz could once again drive up fuel prices, shipping costs, fertilizer prices, and international transport expenses, placing additional pressure on the global economy.