US Military Denies Iran's Claim of Closing Strait of Hormuz
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The U.S. military on Saturday rejected Iran's assertion that it had shut the Strait of Hormuz, saying commercial shipping lanes remain open. The denial follows Tehran's renewed threat to close the strategic waterway in response to any military action. The U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet reported normal operations despite rising tensions.
The Denial
The U.S. Department of Defense stated that Iran's claim of blocking the Strait of Hormuz is false. The Navy's Fifth Fleet confirmed all maritime traffic is moving normally through the strait. No incidents of disruption have been reported. The denial came hours after Iranian state media circulated a claim that the waterway had been closed.
Iran's Stance
Iran has repeatedly threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions with the U.S. and Israel. Tehran argues it can legally control the waterway, through which a fifth of global oil supplies—about 20 million barrels per day—pass. Recent naval exercises by Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps simulated a blockade, raising concerns in Washington.
Strategic Waterway
The Strait of Hormuz is a 21-nautical-mile-wide channel between Iran and Oman. It is the world's most important oil transit point, handling roughly 20 million barrels daily. Any closure would immediately spike global oil prices and likely trigger international military response. The U.S. maintains a carrier strike group in the region to ensure freedom of navigation.
What's Next
The U.S. Navy is scheduled to conduct joint patrols with allies next week. It remains unclear whether Iran will follow through on its closure threats or if diplomatic channels can ease the situation.
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US Military Denies Iran's Claim of Closing Strait of Hormuz
