Iran Declares Full Control Over Strait of Hormuz After US Halts Attacks

Following US President Donald Trump's decision to cancel planned strikes against Iran, the Iranian Revolutionary Guards announced they maintain full control over the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran reported that several ships attempting to pass through the strait without Iranian approval were turned back, with one vessel reportedly involved in an accident during the attempt. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baqaei emphasized that Iran has no interest in resuming peace talks with the United States.

The US halted its two-week-long bombing campaign after senior military officials, including Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan McKenzie, expressed concerns about depleting air defense interceptor stocks and a shortage of quality targets. Despite US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz stating the ceasefire was intended to allow diplomatic efforts, significant gaps remain between the two sides.

The US airstrikes caused extensive damage and dozens of Iranian casualties, while Iran retaliated with missile attacks on American bases in the region, killing four US soldiers and damaging civilian infrastructure in Gulf countries. The ceasefire announcement triggered an immediate drop in global oil prices by nearly eight percent, falling below $90 per barrel.