Iran announced the full closure of the Strait of Hormuz and fired on vessels attempting to transit the waterway on April 18, 2026 [1].
The move threatens global energy security and maritime trade, as the narrow waterway between Iran and Oman is a primary artery for oil exports from the Persian Gulf.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy is managing the closure. An IRGC official said, "The Strait of Hormuz is now under full IRGC control" [2]. The Iranian military has begun active operations to enforce the restriction, with reports indicating that the IRGC has fired upon ships in the area [3].
Tehran said the closure is a direct response to the continued U.S. blockade of Iranian ports and the imposition of sanctions [4]. Iranian officials said they would continue to block transit through the strait as long as the U.S. blockade remains in effect [5].
An IRGC Navy spokesperson said ships approaching the vital waterway "will be targeted" [6]. The action follows accusations from Tehran that the U.S. violated a previous deal to reopen the waterway [7].
The Strait of Hormuz links the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman, making it one of the most strategically sensitive chokepoints in the world [8]. The sudden shift to full control by the IRGC marks a significant escalation in regional tensions, a move that follows recent hints from the U.S. regarding the potential resumption of attacks if ceasefire terms expire without a deal [9].
“"The Strait of Hormuz is now under full IRGC control."”
The closure of the Strait of Hormuz creates an immediate crisis for global oil markets and shipping logistics. By weaponizing this maritime chokepoint, Iran is leveraging its geographic advantage to force a change in U.S. policy regarding port blockades and sanctions. This escalation increases the risk of a direct military confrontation between the IRGC and U.S. naval forces operating in the region.
