Iran reimposes restrictions on Strait of Hormuz, accuses US of violating reopening deal

Iran has reimposed restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz, just a day after announcing its reopening, accusing the United States of violating an understanding linked to easing tensions in the region.

According to international reports, Iran’s military said the strategic waterway has been placed back under “strict control,” warning that transit would remain restricted as long as the US naval blockade of Iranian-linked shipping continues.

The move came after US President Donald Trump stated that the American blockade would remain in force despite Iran’s announcement that the strait had been reopened. Tehran said this position breached the terms of a recent understanding tied to a ceasefire effort.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, with roughly one-fifth of global oil supplies passing through it. Any disruption to shipping through the route has immediate implications for global oil markets and energy prices.

Iran had earlier declared the waterway open following a temporary truce linked to the broader conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran-backed groups in the region. However, officials indicated that the reopening was conditional and could be reversed if the US maintained pressure through its blockade.

Reports suggest that even during the brief reopening, vessel movement remained tightly controlled, with ships required to follow designated routes and, in some cases, seek approval from Iranian authorities before transit.

The renewed restrictions have added to uncertainty in global energy markets, which had briefly stabilised on hopes of de-escalation.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global shipping route, with a significant share of the world’s oil supply passing through it daily. Following Iran’s latest move, shipping activity in the region has slowed, with reports indicating stricter monitoring and controlled passage for vessels transiting the waterway.