IRGC Announces Closure of Hormuz Until Further Notice Due to US Interference

Washington DC, United States Jul 12, 2026 ALN: Tehran [Iran], July 12: Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced on Saturday that the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed "until further notice." This decision is attributed to ongoing interference by the United States in the West Asia region, as reported by Press TV.

The Strait of Hormuz is a strategically vital waterway that connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. It is one of the most important maritime chokepoints in the world, through which a significant percentage of the world's oil supply transits. The IRGC's announcement of closure raises significant concerns not only for Iran's regional neighbors but also for global energy markets, as any disruption in this waterway could lead to increased oil prices and economic instability.

According to an IRGC statement, the closure is a response to the "security situation resulting from the unlawful intervention of foreign powers." The statement emphasized that no vessels will be allowed to transit the strait until the US ceases its activities in the area. This declaration reflects Iran's longstanding grievances regarding US military presence in the region, which Tehran views as a direct threat to its sovereignty and security.

The IRGC Navy issued a warning against any military actions under the pretext of the strait's closure, stating that such actions would provoke a strong response. "Should the aggressor enemy exploit this development, which it, itself, has caused, as a pretext for committing another act of aggression against us, it will be met with a forceful response, and additional enemy bases in the region will be targeted," the statement warned. This rhetoric underscores the heightened tensions between Iran and the US, particularly in light of previous military confrontations and skirmishes in the Gulf region.

The IRGC further asserted that any consequences arising from this situation would be the responsibility of the United States, Israel, and nations hosting military facilities allegedly used for operations against Iran. This statement indicates Iran's intent to hold not only the US accountable but also its allies, which could complicate diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions in the region.

This announcement coincides with ongoing diplomatic efforts, as Qatari negotiators are traveling to Iran to ease tensions and facilitate the resumption of US-Iran talks following recent military escalations. The involvement of Qatar, a nation that has maintained relatively good relations with both Iran and the US, highlights the complexities of regional diplomacy and the need for mediators to navigate the fraught relationship between these two powers.

Earlier, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araqchi met with his Omani counterpart, Seyyed Badr Al-Busaidi, in Muscat. Their discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations, regional developments, and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. Oman has historically played a mediating role in the region, often acting as a facilitator for dialogue between Iran and other Gulf states, as well as with Western powers. The emphasis on maritime security in their talks reflects the critical importance of safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, particularly in light of the recent escalation in military rhetoric and actions.

In a post on his official Telegram channel, Araqchi noted that the two diplomats explored various fields of cooperation between Tehran and Muscat, alongside broader regional issues. They also discussed mechanisms to ensure the safe passage of ships in accordance with Article 5 of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, while Oman reiterated its support for diplomatic efforts to reduce regional tensions. This memorandum is significant as it aims to enhance maritime cooperation and security among littoral states, highlighting the importance of collaborative approaches to address shared concerns.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump stated on Friday that Washington is willing to continue talks with Iran following a request from Tehran. However, he reiterated that the US considers the previous ceasefire between the two nations to be "over." This statement reflects the ongoing volatility in US-Iran relations, which have been strained since the US unilaterally withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018 and reinstated economic sanctions on Iran. The potential for renewed negotiations may offer a glimmer of hope for diplomatic resolution, but the context of military threats and the IRGC's recent announcement complicates the landscape.

The implications of the IRGC's closure of the Strait of Hormuz extend beyond immediate regional tensions. A prolonged closure could lead to significant disruptions in global oil supply chains, potentially affecting countries that rely heavily on oil imports from the Gulf region. Furthermore, it could escalate military confrontations in the area, as naval forces from the US and its allies may seek to protect shipping routes, leading to a dangerous escalation of hostilities.

Historically, the Strait of Hormuz has been a flashpoint for geopolitical tensions, particularly between Iran and the United States. The waterway has been the site of numerous confrontations, including the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, where both nations sought to control shipping lanes for oil exports. The strategic importance of the strait has made it a focal point for military posturing and naval deployments by both regional and international powers, particularly the US, which has maintained a significant military presence in the Persian Gulf since the Gulf War in the early 1990s.

The IRGC's announcement also comes against the backdrop of broader regional dynamics, including Iran's nuclear program and its support for various militant groups across the Middle East. The US has consistently viewed these actions as destabilizing, leading to a complex interplay of sanctions, diplomatic negotiations, and military readiness in the region. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz could be seen as a strategic maneuver by Iran to leverage its position in these negotiations, demonstrating its capability and willingness to disrupt global oil supply if provoked.

In conclusion, the IRGC's announcement marks a significant development in the already tense relationship between Iran and the United States. As both sides navigate this precarious situation, the involvement of regional actors like Qatar and Oman may play a crucial role in facilitating dialogue and preventing further escalation. The international community, particularly major oil-importing nations, will be closely monitoring the developments in the Strait of Hormuz, as the stability of this vital waterway remains critical for global economic stability. The situation underscores the delicate balance of power in the region and the potential for both diplomatic resolution and military conflict as the stakes continue to rise.