Iran Claims Full Closure of Strait of Hormuz Amid Escalation, But Shipping Route Remains Open

Tensions in the Gulf have escalated following overnight exchanges of fire in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) condemned the U.S. administration for attempting to open an illegal maritime route south of the strait. Despite these developments, the British Maritime Trade Operations Center (UKMTO) announced on Sunday that the shipping lane remains open but warned that navigation risks are extremely high.

In response to the heightened military activity, Qatar advised all maritime vessels and fishing boats in its waters to temporarily suspend voyages until further notice. Shortly after the attacks, the IRGC reported striking another vessel in the strait. Iranian Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf declared, "The era of unilateral agreements is over; either honor your commitments or pay the price."

Nevertheless, Iran agreed to continue negotiations in Oman to reach an understanding regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) announced the completion of a third round of strikes, targeting over 140 sites within the Islamic Republic of Iran.

These developments underscore the ongoing volatility in the region, with diplomatic talks proceeding amid military confrontations and warnings to maritime operators about the severe risks of navigating the critical waterway.