Iran Tightens Control Over Strait of Hormuz Amid Escalating Tensions

Tehran. Iran has further strengthened its control over the Strait of Hormuz. Since early Wednesday morning, Iran attacked three ships in the strait, seizing two of them.

This move comes after US President Donald Trump announced the indefinite suspension of attacks on Iran.

Although the US side has signaled an extension of the ceasefire, Iran has not clearly indicated its agreement. Instead, Iran has criticized the US naval blockade, labeling it an act of war.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has set a condition that the blockade must be lifted for a full ceasefire. He stated that the possibility of reopening Hormuz is impossible as long as the blockade remains in place.

Meanwhile, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) stated that it has seized two ships flying the flags of Liberia and Panama and taken them toward its coast. The ships are accused of operating without necessary permits and tampering with navigation systems. A third ship was fired upon but was allowed to proceed. The US has termed the seizure of the ships as "maritime piracy."

The US stated that it is continuing its maritime blockade against Iran and has directed more than 30 ships to turn back. It is also reported that some Iranian tankers in Asian waters have been stopped. This situation has impacted the global economy. The price of crude oil in the international market has reached over $100 per barrel.

Little progress has been made toward ending the war that began with US and Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28. With the Strait of Hormuz effectively paralyzed, countries around the world are under pressure. Thousands have lost their lives in the Middle East, particularly in Iran and Lebanon. Although Pakistan is mediating for peace talks, no concrete progress has been made so far.

Iran has been demanding the lifting of sanctions on its nuclear program, compensation, and recognition of its rights in the Strait of Hormuz.