IRGC Commander States Strait of Hormuz Not Closed but Controlled by Iran

Tehran — The commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has stated that the Strait of Hormuz is not closed but remains under Iranian control. Alireza Tangsiri, Commander of the Naval Forces of the IRGC, stated in a statement that US claims regarding the destruction of Iran’s naval forces or the provision of safe escort for oil tanker ships are false, according to Iran’s semi-official news agency, Tasnim.

“The Strait of Hormuz is not militarily closed, but merely remains under control,” the statement read.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi conveyed a similar message, telling US media that the strait remains open for international navigation, except for vessels belonging to the US, Israel, and their allies.

“The Strait of Hormuz is open. It is only closed for tanker ships and vessels belonging to our enemies, for those who attack us and their allies. Others are free to pass through,” Araghchi said.

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow strategic waterway through which approximately one-fifth of global oil requirements pass. In his first message as Iran’s supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei pledged to maintain Iranian influence over the strait.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump on Saturday urged nations dependent on oil shipments through the strait to share responsibility for keeping the passage open, with American assistance.

Washington is seeking to contain rising oil prices amid combined US-Israeli attacks on Iran, which have triggered Iranian retaliation against US assets throughout the Middle East.